What is Myopia and Why is it Important?
Myopia is the inability of the eye to see clearly in the distance and occurs when the front-back axis of the eye is longer than normal. This condition begins especially in childhood and can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated. Myopic, has become a rapidly increasing health problem worldwide. Studies predict that half of the world's population may be myopic by 2050. This is especially related to increased screen use after the Covid-19 pandemic.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of Myopia
Symptoms of myopia usually include:
- Blurred vision of distant objects
- Eye strain and headache
- Eye strain during close work
Diagnosis is made through an eye examination. The ophthalmologist performs various tests to evaluate the refractive power of the eye and determine the degree of myopia.
Causes of Myopia
Many factors can be effective in the formation of myopia. These include genetic predisposition, environmental factors and lifestyle. Especially digital display usage is an important factor that triggers the development of myopia. Children looking at a computer or tablet screen for a long time can negatively affect the focusing ability of the eyes.
Increase in Myopia in Children and Precautions
In recent years, myopia has been seen frequently in children. With the Covid-19 pandemic, the rate of myopia has increased as children spend more time at home and in front of screens. Prolonged screen use, causes excessive strain on the eye muscles, which threatens eye health.
The following measures can be taken to reduce the risk of myopia in children:
- Spending time outside in the sunshine: Exposure to natural light for at least two hours during the day is beneficial for eye development.
- Eye-relaxing breaks: It is important to take a five-minute break every half hour in front of the screen.
- Correct screen usage: Devices should be held at least one elbow distance from the eye.
Treatment Methods for Myopia
Myopia treatment usually begins with the use of glasses or contact lenses. Other than that, surgical methods are also available. Laser eye surgery, is a frequently preferred method in the treatment of myopia. With this method, the refractive error of the eye is corrected and patients can see more clearly.
Myopia Risks and Complications
If myopia is not treated, it can lead to serious eye health problems in the long term. In patients with high levels of myopia glaucoma, macular degeneration ve cataract Complications such as these are more common. Therefore, it is important for myopic patients to have regular eye examinations.
Myopia Prevention Methods
Some behavioral changes are recommended to protect against myopia. Daylight, is very effective in protecting eye health. Natural light supports brain functions that control eye growth. In addition, being in natural environments can reduce the risk of myopia by limiting close screen activities.
Especially in Asian countries, due to the high rates of myopia glass classes Pilot studies have been conducted and positive results have been obtained. Such applications are considered an effective method to protect eye health.
As a result
Myopia has become a major health problem today. The fact that it is increasing especially in children makes this situation even more critical. Screen use and environmental factors are the main factors that trigger the development of myopia. The precautions we take to prevent and treat myopia play a major role in protecting our eye health.
