How does myopia, or nearsightedness, occur?
People often have misconceptions about how myopia, or nearsightedness, develops.
The common belief is that it results from the growth of the eyeball, but how does this growth occur?
Myopia is characterized by the ability to see objects clearly up close, while distant objects appear blurry. The causes and treatments for myopia are complex, and clinical science has identified at least three forms of this condition.
Type I Myopia is present at birth or develops shortly thereafter in one or both eyes. This form is typically more severe and less influenced by visual habits or environmental factors.
Type II Myopia is acquired or functional myopia. It may be hereditary, especially if developed at a young age, but its progression is strongly influenced by environmental factors.
Type III Myopia is rare and usually associated with disease conditions like diabetes. It is often temporary and results from swelling in the cornea or lens.
Research has shown that the degree of Type II (functional) myopia is influenced by how individuals respond to visual demands. Extended periods of close-up activities, such as reading or using computer screens with little physical activity, can encourage the progression of nearsightedness at virtually any age. Over time, the eye's focusing mechanism shifts inward, prioritizing near vision over distance clarity.
Gradually develop
Functional myopia typically develops gradually. It may start as temporary blurring when shifting focus from near to far distances, then progress to noticeable blur by the end of the day. This cycle continues until distance vision becomes constantly blurry. Children might struggle to copy from the board at school, while adults may notice blurred road signs while driving.
A Neuro Developmental Vision Evaluation(https://suntime.com.my/services/children-vision/neuro-developmental-vis…) , along with appropriate supplementary testing, is essential to determine the most suitable treatment for your myopia.
Prescribing glasses or contact lenses to simply sharpen distance vision addresses the symptom, not the root cause of the problem. In some cases, developmental or rehabilitative lenses may be needed to tackle the underlying issues.
Optometric Neuro vision therapy, also known as visual training or orthoptics, may be recommended for patients of any age who are developing functional nearsightedness. This active treatment program typically combines in-office visual exercises with home therapy activities.
Contact lenses can also play a significant role in managing myopia. Research and clinical experience have shown that rigid contact lenses can slow the progression of nearsightedness. Your optometrist might suggest a treatment called orthokeratology, which involves the programmed use of contact lenses to reshape the cornea without surgery. Additionally, refractive surgery is another option that can alter the shape of the cornea to correct vision.
Treating myopia involves considering various factors to determine the most appropriate approach. Fellows of the College have been certified in the area of vision development.
NOT ALL PRACTITIONER TRAIN TO :
FACBO is board certified by Australasia College of BehaviouralOptometry. An FCOVD is a board-certified fellow of theCollege of Optometrists in Vision Development from the U.S. An FCSO isa board-certified Fellow of the College of SyntonicOptometry from U.S. FNORA is a board certified Fellow of theNeuro Optometric Rehabilitation from the U.S. FACBO, FCOVD and FCSO certifications mean demonstrated advanced competency in the areas of vision development,binocular vision, visual information processing, vision therapy and neurovision rehabilitation.
Fellowship (FACBO,FCOVD, FCSO, FNORA) requiresadherence to the exacting standards of these Colleges.
Reference : This informational paper was produced by the College of Optometrists in Vision Development, which board certifies qualified optometric physicians in vision therapy. For further information, see our website, www.covd.org.