Myopia is one of many conditions that can affect your vision. Below, our eye care team at Optica 20/20 San Antonio answers some of the most common questions about it.
What is myopia?
Myopia is a refractive error, meaning that light does not focus properly on the retina to provide clear vision. With myopia, or nearsightedness, the eye is elongated, causing light to land in front of the retina after entering the eye.
How common is it?
Nearsightedness has always been fairly common, typically impacting about a quarter of the population. However, in recent years, that percentage has nearly doubled. The increase has been linked to a lack of outdoor time, which helps train our eye muscles to focus properly.
What are the symptoms?
The most common sign of myopia is difficulty seeing objects in the distance clearly. If myopia is the only issue, you can still typically see objects that are up close. However, sometimes more than one eye condition is present, which can impair vision at various distances. Other symptoms can include:
- Squinting when looking in the distance
- Difficulty driving at night
- Headaches
- Chronic eye strain
If you notice any of these symptoms or any changes in your vision, it’s best to visit an optometrist near you for a proper diagnosis as soon as possible. If you live in or around San Antonio, we are happy to provide a walk-in eye exam and same-day appointments for your convenience.
Can it be treated?
An optometrist near you can help, beginning with a regular eye care exam to assess your eye health and vision. Once a diagnosis is confirmed, you might receive one or more of the following treatment methods:
- Eye drops, which reduce muscle fatigue in the eyes
- Prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses
- Specialty contacts that can help reshape the cornea
It’s also important to add more outdoor time to your routine. This will help strengthen the eyes and adjust the shape for proper viewing. Be sure to wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from damaging UV rays.
Contact Our Eye Doctor in San Antonio, TX
Are you concerned you might have myopia? Visit our team at Optica 20/20 San Antonio for a walk-in eye exam or schedule a same-day appointment with an eye doctor near you by calling (210) 928-2020.
