One of the most prevalent vision problems today is myopia or nearsightedness. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, over 34 million Americans aged 40 and older experience this condition. If you‘re nearsighted, you’ll have difficulty seeing distant objects clearly. By learning more about myopia, you’ll be aware of its causes, symptoms, and treatment in case you start to experience it.
As the premier eye care clinic in Brooklyn, New York, Park Slope Eye has dealt with numerous cases of myopia since our founding in 2008. Below are common questions patients have about this eye condition:
Question #1: Is Myopia a Hereditary Condition?
Although it has no scientific basis yet, myopia seems to be somewhat inherited. If one or both of your parents have myopia, you are at a higher risk of developing it. Most experts believe, however, that myopia has something to do with eye fatigue from reading or using the computer for extended hours.
Question #2: What are its Symptoms?
If you can read what’s on your laptop or book without trouble but you struggle to see what’s on the television screen, you may be nearsighted. Other symptoms include frequent eyestrain, squinting, and headaches. If you experience these signs while wearing your eyeglasses or contacts, be sure to consult an experienced eye specialist in Brooklyn, NY to find out if you need to update your eye prescription.
Question #3: How is Myopia Diagnosed?
Through a comprehensive eye exam, an eye care professional will be able to determine if you have myopia. This usually begins with a visual acuity test, which measures how well you can see distant or smaller objects. If the test shows you are nearsighted, your doctor will use a retinoscope to identify the extent of your refractive error.
Question #4: What are the Treatment Options for Myopia?
The most common treatment option is to wear the eyeglasses or contact lenses. For patients who are seeking alternative ways to control this condition, Park Slope Eye offers two options: orthokeratology and laser eye surgery. Orthokeratology involves using corrective lenses worn overnight to reshape the cornea. Laser eye surgery, on the other hand, is a more permanent solution. It requires the use of a medical laser to flatten the surface of the cornea for better light refraction.
Park Slope Eye is the leading name for eye care in Brooklyn, NY. Our eye care experts can help ease your discomfort from myopia using our advanced tools and technologies. To schedule an appointment, call us at (347) 380-7070 or complete our online form. We look forward to hearing from you!
