What Is Myopia?
What is myopia?
Myopia is defined by the American Optometric Association as nearsightedness, a vision condition in which people can see close objects clearly, but objects farther away appear blurred. The number of children being diagnosed with myopia has doubled in just three decades and this has raised an awareness in the optometric circles.
Should I be concerned about myopia?
In the past, myopia was treated with glasses getting stronger and stronger every year, no big deal. Now, the research is showing that it is a big deal. Myopic patients are at greater risk of having degeneration of the retina, particularly the macula.
High myopic patients may develop myopic maculopathy where the walls of the eyeball become extremely stretched and thin. Other risks associated with myopia are glaucoma and earlier development of cataracts.
What are some of the causes of myopia?
Genetics plays an important role in the development of myopia if a parent or both parents are myopic. Lack of outdoor play for at least 1 hour is also believed to be a contributing factor. More research is being done on the effects of myopia and vitamin D. In the time of COVID-19 and virtual learning and our connected lifestyles, we are straining our eyes with the amount of near work we do on a daily basis and, sometimes, not in the best lighting.
Orthokeratology, commonly referred to as Ortho-K, is being prescribed as a treatment for myopia progression. Orthokeratology is a non surgical option of correcting myopia.
The gas permeable lenses, or as we call them, molds, are put on just before bed and they apply a gentle pressure to the cornea of the eye to gently reshape the cornea to correct vision while sleeping. The molds are removed in the morning after waking and you will be able to see clearly without any glasses or soft contact lenses during your waking hours.
Orthokeratology is not a permanent solution and is reversible. Doctors must be trained and certified to administer Orthokeratology. Call Focal Point Eye Care or text us at (225) 239-2919 or go online to schedule a free consultation.







