Nearsightedness - Myopia

When the eye no longer reaches very far

Nearsightedness or myopia is not a disease, rather ‘just’ an error in the optical system. This causes you to see distant objects less clearly. Focusing on objects nearby is not a problem.

Nearsightedness is affecting more and more people

Twenty-five percent of the adult population is nearsighted. And that percentage continues to rise. Myopia is usually inherited. There are however external factors that play an important role in nearsightedness:

• excessive use of the eyes for close-up activities, such as computer work and reading;
• sleeping in rooms with little or no black-out, especially at a young age (night light!);
• too much exposure to artificial light;
• poor diet with insufficient fibre, too much sugar and unsaturated fats;
• light pollution, such as street lights and neon advertising.

Nearsightedness and other eye disorders

If you are nearsighted, then you probably have difficulty focusing on distant objects. If so, it’s a good idea to make an appointment with Dr. Vryghem. He will make the right diagnosis, determine the degree of myopia, and check your eyes for other disorders. Because myopia sometimes goes hand in hand with astigmatism.

Nearsightedness can be improved

Nearsightedness usually develops between the age of 8 and 12. When you reach adulthood, nearsightedness usually remains stable. Fortunately, there are ways to correct nearsightedness: visual training, glasses, contact lenses or a laser operation on the cornea. If the degree of myopia is very high, then you should consider a surgical procedure. Dr. Vryghem will tell you all about it.

Nearsightedness in a nutshell

• Nearsightedness or myopia is an error in the optical system.
• Focusing on distant objects is difficult – focusing on close-up objects is no problem.
• There are various ways to correct nearsightedness.

If you have myopia, contact Dr. Vryghem. Or visit our clinic. Then you can see it with your own eyes.