Myopia is more than just a need for glasses or contact lenses. It is an eye health issue that, if left untreated, can lead to vision problems. The risk of developing certain eye conditions increases with the severity of myopia. For example, people with high myopia are at a greater risk of developing conditions like retinal detachment, glaucoma, and cataracts.

The Risks of Untreated Myopia

If left untreated, myopia can lead to significant vision loss. In the worst scenarios, it can even lead to blindness. This is why understanding the risks of untreated myopia is so critical.

The elongation of the eyeball associated with myopia can lead to a condition called myopic maculopathy. This is a form of macular degeneration that can cause irreversible vision loss. It occurs when the elongation of the eye causes stretching and thinning of the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision.

Individuals with high myopia are also at a greater risk of developing a condition called myopic choroidal neovascularization. This happens when new, abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the retina. These vessels can leak fluid and blood, leading to scarring and, ultimately, vision loss.

Untreated myopia can lead to a poorer quality of life. It can limit a person's ability to perform daily tasks, impact their performance at work or school, and reduce their overall enjoyment of life.

Preventing the Progression of Myopia

The key to preventing the progression of myopia lies in early detection and treatment. The first step is to have regular eye exams, especially for children, as myopia often starts in childhood. If myopia is detected, there are several treatment options available. These can include glasses or contact lenses, orthokeratology, or even refractive surgery in some cases.

It's also important to encourage children to spend more time outdoors. Several studies have indicated that outdoor activities can help slow the progression of myopia in children. Limiting screen time and ensuring good lighting when reading or studying can also help.

Lifestyle modifications, such as a balanced diet and regular exercise, can also contribute to eye health and help prevent the progression of myopia. A diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids can support eye health, while regular physical activity can help maintain good blood circulation, including in the eyes.

The Role of Eye Exams 

Eye exams play a crucial role in detecting myopia early. Regular eye exams are especially important for children since myopia often begins in childhood. An eye exam can detect even mild myopia, allowing for early intervention and treatment to prevent progression.

Eye exams not only detect myopia but also other serious eye conditions. During an eye exam, your eye doctor will assess your overall eye health, checking for signs of conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, or retinal detachment, which are more common in people with myopia.

Understanding the importance of regular eye exams, and making them a part of your health routine, can help safeguard your vision.

Safeguard Your Vision and Eye Health Today

Myopia is not just about needing glasses. It's about eye health and protecting our vision. By understanding myopia, its risks, and the importance of regular eye exams, we can ensure that we're doing all we can to safeguard our vision, and the vision of our loved ones.

To learn more about the risks of untreated myopia, visit Premier Eye Care at our office in Fort Worth, Texas. Call (817) 428-2020 to schedule an appointment today.