Understanding Myopia: Causes, Risks, and the Importance of Early Detection

Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is a refractive error that affects the clarity of distant vision. While it is one of the most common vision problems, its prevalence is rising rapidly, particularly among children. Understanding the causes, associated risks, and why early detection matters is key to protecting eye health and maintaining clear vision for life.

What Causes Myopia?

Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long from front to back (axial elongation) or when the cornea is overly curved. This causes light entering the eye to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it, leading to blurred distance vision.
 

Factors contributing to myopia include:
 

• Genetics: If one or both parents are nearsighted, the likelihood of their child developing myopia is higher.
   

• Environmental Influences: Extended near work, such as reading or screen use, and reduced time spent outdoors are linked to the onset and progression of myopia.
   

Risks Associated with Myopia

While myopia can often be corrected with glasses or contact lenses, higher degrees of myopia increase the risk of serious eye conditions, including:
 

• Retinal detachment
   

• Glaucoma
   

• Cataracts
   

• Myopic maculopathy
   

These conditions can lead to significant vision loss if not managed effectively, making early detection and intervention critical.
 

The Importance of Early Detection

Detecting myopia in its early stages is essential, especially for children. Regular eye exams allow optometrists to monitor vision changes, assess the progression of myopia, and implement strategies to slow its advancement. The earlier myopia management begins, the more effective it can be in reducing the risk of long-term complications.
 

Myopia Management Options

At Texas State Optical, we offer several advanced myopia management treatments designed to slow the progression of myopia in children and young adults:
 

• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): These specially designed rigid contact lenses are worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea. Ortho-K provides clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or contacts, while also helping to slow the progression of myopia.
   

• Atropine Eye Drops: Low-dose atropine drops are an effective treatment to reduce the progression of myopia. Applied daily, these drops can significantly decrease the rate of axial elongation in children.
   

• MiSight Contact Lenses: MiSight lenses are FDA-approved soft contact lenses specifically designed for children with myopia. These daily disposable lenses not only correct vision but also slow myopia progression through innovative optical technology.
   

Partnering with Texas State Optical for Long-Term Eye Health

Managing myopia requires a proactive approach, and we are here to help you or your child maintain clear, healthy vision. Our comprehensive eye exams and tailored myopia management plans ensure you receive the best care to address your unique needs.
 

Schedule your child’s eye exam with Texas State Optical to learn more about how we can help manage myopia effectively and protect their vision for years to come. Contact our office in Kingwood, Texas, by calling (346) 466-4600 to book an appointment today.