Optometry for Myopia

Do you or your child have trouble seeing things that are far away? The problem may be myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness. You are not alone. According to the American Optometric Association, 30 percent of the US population is myopic. They can read close but have trouble with blackboards, signs and anything distant. Eye 1^st Vision Center in Sandy Springs, GA, will examine your eyes, determine if you have myopia and recommend measures to correct it.

Signs of Myopia

For adults, signs of nearsightedness include trouble driving at night (especially reading signs), difficulty seeing at the movies and headaches from straining. A child may be less able to understand what is happening to them. If they are always sitting to close to the TV, have trouble reading the blackboard, don’t see objects in the distance and are frequently squinting, it’s time to have them tested. Rubbing the eyes and excessive blinking are other possible indications of nearsightedness.

What Is Myopia?

Myopia occurs when the eye is not the ideal shape. It does not bend light the way it should, focusing in front of the retina instead of on it. The result is blurry vision.

A tendency toward myopia is hereditary. If both parents are nearsighted, it is highly likely their children will be as well. It tends to first show up in grade school and get gradually worse until early adulthood. But there are lifestyle factors as well. People who read a lot, work at a computer or do other close work are more likely to become nearsighted.

Diagnosis of Myopia

An optometrist such as Eye 1^st Vision Center can examine your eyes for myopia. In addition to a visual acuity test, we may do other tests to see if you have additional problems such as astigmatism.

Correction of Myopia

Eyeglasses the traditional method of correcting myopia. But they are not the only one. Many people find contact lenses comfortable and easy to wear. Some folks like both: contacts for vigorous activity or to avoid the inconvenience of glasses and spectacles to take over when the eyes are tired.

In recent years Lasik surgery has become popular. It reshapes the curvature of the eye so you can see without glasses or contacts. It has been a life changer for some adults, but it is not suitable for children or people whose prescription is significantly changing.

Another option orthokeratology. It is nonsurgical; you wear a special contact lens at night to reshape the eye while you sleep. 

Make Eye 1^st Vision Center Your Optometrist

For myopia or any other eye problem, Eye 1^st Vision Center is the leader for optometry in Sandy Springs, GA. Contact us to ensure you and your family see clearly!