About Myopia
Myopia, also referred to as short-sightedness, is a condition where distant objects appear blurry while close-up objects remain clear. It occurs when light rays entering the eye focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This focusing error is typically caused by the elongation of the eye. While myopia may be considered an optical inconvenience, it can also pose risks to eye health, hence understanding its causes and the mechanisms by which progression can be managed is crucial. The exact causes of myopia remain uncertain, but research suggests that it is influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, including limited outdoor exposure and lifestyle habits.
In the past, myopia was managed through simple optical correction strategies which were applied to remove the optical deficit and restore clear vision but did not address the challenge of continued excessive eye growth and myopia progression. However, recent clinical trials have yielded promising results in the field of myopia management. Specialized contact lenses and spectacles have been developed to alter the focus of peripheral images, aiming to prevent excessive eye growth. By bringing peripheral images in front of the retina, these interventions are thought to remove the stimulus for elongation, thereby slowing down the progression of myopia. Aside from these optical interventions, pharmaceutical agents such as atropine are also being investigated for their application in myopia management.
Myopia in the UK typically starts to manifest around the age of six to seven years and progresses most rapidly during the school years. Eye growth and myopia progression usually slow or stop in the late teenage years or early adulthood. Interventions for myopia management are most effective during the most active period of eye growth. Early detection and timely intervention play a vital role in managing and potentially slowing down the progression of myopia. While interventions can help slow down the progression of myopia, it is important to note that they do not reverse or entirely halt eye growth. The eye will usually continue to grow, albeit at a slower rate. Currently, there is no proven treatment to reverse myopia.
