Myopia (also called nearsightedness) means distant objects look blurry while near objects look clear. In very simple terms, the eye’s built-in focusing system is too strong for the eye’s length, or the eye is too long for the focusing power. Because of this mismatch, light from faraway objects is focused in front of the light-sensing layer at the back of the eye (the retina) instead of right on it. The unit we use to describe how much focusing power is needed to fix this is the diopter (D). Myopia prescriptions are written with a minus sign (for example, −2.50 D).
Myopia—often called nearsightedness—means you can see near objects clearly, but far objects look blurry. Light entering the eye should focus exactly on the retina (the “camera sensor” at the back of your eye). In myopia, the eye is too long from front to back or the cornea/lens is too strong, so light focuses in front of the retina instead of on it. The result is distance blur.
Myopia usually starts in childhood and can progress through the teen years. Some people develop high/pathologic myopia, where the eye becomes very long and tissues stretch, increasing the risk of complications such as retinal tears, retinal detachment, myopic macular degeneration, and glaucoma. Myopia is common, manageable, and, with the right plan, its progression can often be slowed in children.
Light passes through the cornea (the clear front window of the eye) and the lens (a flexible, transparent structure behind the colored part, the iris). These two parts bend the light so it lands sharply on the retina. When that happens, the image is clear, and we call the eye emmetropic (no refractive error). In myopia, the axial length (front-to-back length of the eyeball) is too long, or the cornea/lens has too much power, so light lands short of the retina—causing blur far away.
Types of myopia
There is no single “right” list, because doctors group myopia in different ways (by cause, by age of onset, by severity, and by eye structure). Below are the most useful everyday categories.
Simple (school-age) myopia
This is the most common type. It usually starts in childhood (often between ages 6–12) and progresses through the teenage years. The eye lengthens gradually, and glasses or contact lenses correct it well.High myopia
Usually defined as −6.00 D or more, or an axial length ≥ 26 mm. High myopia raises the risk of complications such as retinal detachment, myopic maculopathy, glaucoma, and early cataract. Correction is still possible, but regular eye checks are essential to watch for complications.Pathologic (degenerative) myopia
Severe, progressive structural changes in the back of the eye—like posterior staphyloma (outward bulging of the back wall), thinning of the retina/choroid, and myopic maculopathy. Vision can be permanently reduced even with the “right” glasses because the retina itself is affected.Axial myopia
Myopia mainly from an eye that is too long. This is the most common mechanism.Refractive (curvature or index) myopia
The eye’s length is normal, but the cornea is too steep (curvature myopia) or the lens bends light too strongly (index myopia). Keratoconus (a thinning, cone-shaped cornea) and nuclear sclerosis (lens changes with age) are examples.Pseudomyopia (accommodative spasm)
Temporary myopia from the ciliary muscle (the focus muscle) being stuck in “near focus” mode. Distance blur improves after cycloplegia (eye drops that relax accommodation).Nocturnal (night) myopia
More distance blur in dim light due to a slightly different focusing state in the dark and larger pupils that let in more optical imperfections.Congenital myopia
Present at birth or early infancy. It can be isolated or part of a syndrome (e.g., Marfan, Stickler) and needs early detection.Progressive myopia
Prescription gets worse steadily year by year, usually in childhood or teenage years. This group often overlaps with simple or high myopia.Adult-onset myopia
Begins after age ~20, often associated with lots of near work (e.g., prolonged study or screen use) or certain lens changes.Induced (secondary) myopia
Caused by medications (e.g., topiramate, some sulfonamides), diabetes (high blood sugar changes the lens), pregnancy, or swelling of the lens from other causes.Anisomyopia
Different amounts of myopia in the two eyes. This can cause eye strain, headaches, or depth-perception problems if uncorrected.
Causes and risk factors
Note: “Cause” here includes things that directly create myopia or strongly raise the risk that myopia will develop or progress.
Family history / genes
If one or both parents are myopic, a child is more likely to become myopic. Many genes affect eye growth and scleral remodeling.Rapid eye growth (axial elongation)
In childhood, the eyeball can grow longer than it should. A longer eye shifts the focus in front of the retina, causing blur far away.Low time outdoors
Spending little time in daylight is linked to a higher risk of myopia onset and progression. Outdoor light may protect the eye via retinal dopamine signaling that slows eye growth.Intense near work
Long hours of reading, studying, or close screen use (especially at a short working distance) are associated with higher myopia risk and faster progression.Educational pressure
Longer schooling and high academic intensity correlate with higher myopia rates, especially in urban, competitive settings.Urban living
City environments (less outdoor time, more near work) are linked to more myopia compared to rural settings.Accommodative lag
If the focus system is a bit “behind” during near work, the eye may receive signals that encourage growth, adding to myopia progression.Screen use habits
Extended screen time, small fonts, and short viewing distances may increase risk, particularly when breaks are rare and lighting is poor.Poor lighting
Dim indoor lighting can strain the focus system and is associated with myopia risk. Good, even lighting helps comfort and focus stability.Prematurity and low birth weight
These can alter eye development and increase the chance of refractive errors, including myopia.Ethnic background
Populations in East and Southeast Asia show very high rates, though myopia is rising everywhere. This likely reflects both genes and environment.Keratoconus and corneal ectasia
A cornea that becomes thinner and steeper bends light too much, creating curvature myopia.Lens changes with age (nuclear sclerosis)
Changes in the lens’ refractive index can increase focusing power—this “index myopia” can show up in mid-life as the lens ages.Diabetes (high blood sugar)
Shifts in lens water content and refractive index can cause a temporary myopic shift, especially when sugars are poorly controlled.Medications (e.g., topiramate)
Some drugs cause ciliary body or lens changes, leading to temporary myopia. Rapid onset of blur after a new medication needs review.Spasm of accommodation
The focus muscle stays partially engaged as if reading up close, so distance vision blurs. Cycloplegic drops can reveal the “true” refraction.Connective tissue disorders (e.g., Marfan, Stickler)
Weakness in supportive tissues allows the eye to lengthen more than normal, producing high axial myopia.Inadequate viewing distance and posture
Reading very close to the face for long periods increases focusing demand and may promote myopic progression.Insufficient visual breaks
Not following “20-20-20” style breaks (every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds) keeps the focus system constantly engaged at near.Scleral remodeling biology
Chemical signals in the eye (e.g., dopamine, growth factors) regulate scleral strength. When the sclera becomes more extensible, the eye can lengthen faster.
Common symptoms
Blurry distance vision (road signs, classroom board, TV across the room)
Squinting to try to sharpen faraway objects
Headaches after looking far away for a while
Eye strain or tired eyes, especially with switching focus between near and far
Sitting close to screens or moving nearer to read signs
Poor night vision (night myopia)—distance blur and halos seem worse in dim light
Halos or glare around lights at night (often worse with uncorrected astigmatism too)
Frequent prescription changes (especially in children and teens)
Holding reading material very close (children may hide this by coping habits)
Rubbing eyes or blinking a lot (children)
Reduced contrast—distant objects seem washed out
Ghosting/double contours if there’s also astigmatism or irregular cornea
Distance-related performance issues (sports, driving recognition)
Eye discomfort with long screen sessions (digital eye strain can overlap)
Floaters or flashes (not from myopia itself, but important because high myopia increases the risk of retinal tears/detachment; these symptoms need urgent eye care)
Diagnostic tests
Doctors customize testing based on age, symptoms, and risk. Not every person needs every test. Below are tests, grouped into Physical Exam, Manual Tests, Lab & Pathological, Electrodiagnostic, and Imaging.
A) Physical exam
Distance and near visual acuity
You read letters on standardized charts at distance (e.g., 6 m/20 ft) and near (40 cm). In myopia, distance letters are blurry without correction but improve with pinhole or minus lenses.External eye inspection
The doctor looks at the eyelids, conjunctiva, cornea surface, and general eye health. This can reveal dryness, inflammation, or corneal irregularities that might worsen blur.Pupil examination
Checks pupil size, shape, and reactions to light. A normal pupil response supports healthy optic nerve function. Abnormal findings suggest other problems, not typical simple myopia, but important to rule out.Ocular motility and alignment
You follow a target to test eye muscles and alignment. Poor alignment or phorias can contribute to symptoms like eye strain even when the myopia is corrected.Confrontation visual fields
A quick screen for side-vision loss. While myopia causes refractive blur, the field test helps detect neurologic or retinal issues that might coexist, especially in pathologic myopia.Color vision (Ishihara or similar)
Not a myopia test per se, but helps detect color vision defects or optic nerve disease. Baseline color testing can be useful if future problems arise.
B) Manual tests
Pinhole test
Looking through a small hole reduces optical blur if the problem is refractive. If distance vision improves through a pinhole, it supports a correctable refractive error like myopia.Streak retinoscopy
The clinician shines a light and observes reflexes from the retina while moving a streak of light. This gives an objective estimate of your prescription (before you even say “better or worse”). Myopes show a pattern that indicates minus lens power is needed.Subjective refraction (phoropter/trial frame)
You compare “which is clearer, 1 or 2?” to fine-tune the lens power. This yields the final glasses or contact lens prescription.Jackson cross-cylinder (JCC) refinement
A special lens tool refines astigmatism and axis. Many myopes also have astigmatism, and good JCC refinement improves clarity and comfort.Accommodation tests (near point of accommodation, NPC)
Measures how close you can focus (near point) and how well your eyes converge on a near target. Abnormal results can explain eye strain, pseudomyopia, or focusing fatigue.Accommodative facility (“flipper” test)
You rapidly switch between plus and minus lenses to see how quickly the focusing system adapts. Slowness or imbalance can contribute to symptoms, especially during long near work.
C) Lab & pathological tests
These are not routine for simple myopia. They are considered when myopia shifts suddenly or when a systemic cause is suspected.
Blood glucose / HbA1c
High blood sugar can cause the lens to swell slightly and change focus, leading to a temporary myopic shift. Testing is important if distance blur appears suddenly in someone with diabetes symptoms or history.Genetic testing (syndromic or high myopia)
In families with very high myopia or features suggesting Marfan, Stickler, or similar conditions, genetic testing can confirm a syndrome and guide counseling and monitoring.
D) Electrodiagnostic tests
These evaluate how the retina and visual pathway function. They are used when vision is worse than refraction can explain or when pathologic myopia is suspected.
Full-field electroretinography (ERG)
Measures the retina’s electrical response to light. In pathologic myopia with diffuse retinal changes, ERG can show reduced function.Visual evoked potential (VEP)
Records the brain’s response to visual stimuli. If visual acuity is poor despite correct lenses, VEP helps determine if the problem is in the optic nerve/brain versus the eye’s optics.
E) Imaging tests
Corneal topography/tomography
Maps the cornea’s shape and thickness. It detects keratoconus and other irregularities that cause curvature myopia or unstable prescriptions.Optical coherence tomography (OCT) of macula/optic nerve
High-resolution cross-sections of the retina and optic nerve. In pathologic/high myopia, OCT detects myopic maculopathy, choroidal neovascularization, retinoschisis, and optic nerve tilt.Optical biometry (axial length measurement)
Accurately measures eye length. Tracking axial length over time is crucial in myopia management and research. Longer axial length generally equals more myopia and higher risk of complications.B-scan ocular ultrasound
Useful if the view is cloudy (e.g., dense cataract) or to assess posterior staphyloma and retinal status in severe myopia. It shows the eye’s internal contours using sound waves.
Non-pharmacological treatments
These are options that do not use medicine. Some correct blur; others slow progression in children. Each item includes Description, Purpose, and Mechanism (how it likely works).
Full-time single-vision glasses
Description: Standard lenses that make distant objects clear.
Purpose: Correct day-to-day blur so you can see well.
Mechanism: Adds minus power to move the focus back onto the retina; does not slow myopia by itself.Full-time single-vision contact lenses
Description: Soft or rigid lenses worn on the eye.
Purpose: Clear distance vision; preferred by active kids/teens and adults.
Mechanism: Minus lens optics focus images on the retina; no proven slowing effect on progression.Defocus-incorporated spectacle lenses (e.g., DIMS/“myopia control” glasses)
Description: Special glasses with central clear focus and surrounding “myopic defocus” zones.
Purpose: Slow childhood myopia progression while correcting vision.
Mechanism: Peripheral myopic defocus signals the eye to grow less, reducing axial elongation.Multisegment/halo or “H.A.L.T.”-style myopia-control spectacles
Description: Spectacles with many small treatment segments around a clear center.
Purpose: Similar to DIMS; reduce progression.
Mechanism: Creates constant peripheral myopic defocus to discourage eye growth.Dual-focus/multifocal soft contact lenses (e.g., daily-disposable myopia-control lenses)
Description: Contacts with central distance correction and treatment rings.
Purpose: Correct vision and slow progression in children.
Mechanism: Peripheral myopic defocus reduces stimulus for axial elongation.Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) overnight lenses
Description: Rigid lenses worn during sleep to gently reshape the cornea; daytime freedom from lenses.
Purpose: Correct vision without daytime wear and slow progression in many children.
Mechanism: Corneal reshaping creates a peripheral myopic defocus profile that inhibits eye growth.Bifocal/progressive addition spectacle lenses (for near-work heavy kids)
Description: Glasses with added power for close work.
Purpose: Help kids with accommodative lag or esophoria who strain at near; may modestly slow progression in selected cases.
Mechanism: Reduces focusing demand at near and peripheral hyperopic defocus.Increased outdoor time (goal: ≥2 hours/day)
Description: Daily, safe, bright outdoor light exposure.
Purpose: Most practical prevention strategy to reduce onset and slow early progression.
Mechanism: Bright light raises retinal dopamine and other signals that limit axial growth.Near-work hygiene (the “30-30” habit)
Description: Keep ≥30–40 cm reading distance; take a 20–30 second break every 20–30 minutes.
Purpose: Reduce strain and the growth signal from sustained close work.
Mechanism: Less accommodative demand and less peripheral hyperopic defocus.Task lighting and glare control
Description: Good ambient light and a desk lamp; avoid glare/reflections.
Purpose: Reduce eye strain and accommodative lag.
Mechanism: Better contrast and larger pupil margin reduce blur signals that can drive growth.Limit long, uninterrupted screen sessions
Description: Break up gaming/phone/tablet marathons; move the screen farther away.
Purpose: Lower near-work intensity associated with faster progression.
Mechanism: Decreases sustained accommodation and hyperopic defocus in the periphery.Ergonomic posture and print size
Description: Sit upright; hold books/devices below eye level; use larger fonts.
Purpose: Makes the working distance longer and reduces effort.
Mechanism: Less accommodative lag—less stimulus for elongation.Dry-eye care for contact lens users
Description: Hydrating strategies, environmental humidification, preservative-free lubricants.
Purpose: Keep contacts (including Ortho-K) comfortable and safe for consistent myopia control.
Mechanism: Stabilizes tear film; lowers inflammation and infection risk that can interrupt therapy.Allergy management (non-drug behavioral measures)
Description: Cool compresses, lid hygiene, allergen avoidance when possible.
Purpose: Reduce itching/rubbing that can disrupt Ortho-K or contact lens wear.
Mechanism: Less ocular surface inflammation improves tolerance of myopia-control lenses.Parental habit coaching & routine
Description: Family-level schedules for outdoor time, breaks, and bedtime.
Purpose: Improves adherence, the strongest predictor of real-world success.
Mechanism: Consistent exposure to protective behaviors accumulates long-term benefit.School seating and classroom tweaks
Description: Sit closer to the board; teachers enlarge fonts and increase contrast.
Purpose: Clear viewing reduces squinting and eye strain.
Mechanism: Less accommodative stress and clearer visual feedback.Low-level red-light therapy (LLRL) – investigational
Description: Brief, low-intensity red-light sessions with dedicated devices.
Purpose: Under study for myopia control in children.
Mechanism: May modulate retinal signaling pathways affecting eye growth; not standard care.Scleral reinforcement concepts – non-surgical education
Description: For high/pathologic myopia, counseling about options like posterior scleral reinforcement (PSR).
Purpose: Awareness for patients at risk; often part of specialist referral.
Mechanism: Intended to mechanically support the stretching eye wall (surgery required; see below).Protective eyewear and UV control
Description: Quality sunglasses outdoors when bright, sports eye protection.
Purpose: Comfort and safety for active myopic kids/teens.
Mechanism: Reduces glare/photophobia and injury risk without affecting myopia progression directly.Sleep hygiene
Description: Regular sleep schedule, dark room, device curfew.
Purpose: General visual comfort and behavior control; supports adherence to outdoor time and breaks.
Mechanism: Better systemic circadian health may indirectly support eye-growth control signals.
Drug treatments
Important safety note: Only low-dose atropine has strong clinical evidence and wide real-world use to slow childhood myopia progression. Other items below are either supportive (comfort) or for complications of high/pathologic myopia. Doses are typical study/label figures—always follow your eye doctor’s exact plan.
Low-dose atropine eye drops (0.01%–0.05%)
Class: Antimuscarinic (M-receptor blocker).
Dosage/Time: 1 drop in each eye at bedtime daily; common strengths 0.01%, 0.025%, 0.05%.
Purpose: Slow myopia progression in children.
Mechanism: Reduces retinal/scleral growth signaling; decreases accommodative lag.
Side effects: Mild light sensitivity, enlarged pupils, slight near blur; rarely allergy. Sunglasses and photochromic lenses help.Atropine 1% (historical, less used now)
Class: Antimuscarinic.
Dosage/Time: 1 drop nightly; often requires bifocal for near tasks.
Purpose: Strong control effect but high side effects.
Mechanism: Same as above but stronger.
Side effects: Marked light sensitivity and near blur—why lower doses are preferred.Cyclopentolate 1% (not for long-term control)
Class: Cycloplegic antimuscarinic.
Dosage/Time: Used short-term for diagnostic cycloplegia; not routine for progression control.
Purpose: Clarify true refractive error in clinic.
Mechanism: Temporarily relaxes focusing.
Side effects: Light sensitivity, near blur; not a chronic therapy for myopia control.Tropicamide 0.5–1% (not for control)
Class: Short-acting antimuscarinic.
Dosage/Time: Single use in clinic to dilate pupils; not used to slow progression.
Purpose: Exam dilation.
Mechanism: Temporary iris sphincter blockade.
Side effects: Temporary blur and light sensitivity.Pirenzepine 2% ophthalmic gel – investigational/unavailable in many regions
Class: Selective M1 antagonist.
Dosage/Time: Studied twice daily.
Purpose: Experimental myopia control.
Mechanism: May reduce scleral remodeling.
Side effects: Gel residue, mild irritation; not widely accessible.7-Methylxanthine (7-MX) – investigational/region-limited
Class: Xanthine derivative.
Dosage/Time: Pediatric trials used ≈400–600 mg/day; not broadly approved.
Purpose: Potential slowing of axial elongation.
Mechanism: May strengthen scleral collagen remodeling pathways.
Side effects: Possible insomnia, stomach upset; requires medical supervision.Artificial tears (preservative-free lubricants)
Class: Ocular surface lubricants (CMC/HPMC, hyaluronate).
Dosage/Time: 1–4×/day as needed, especially with contacts/Ortho-K.
Purpose: Comfort and safety support (not a control drug).
Mechanism: Stabilizes tear film; improves contact lens tolerance.
Side effects: Rare irritation if preservatives present—prefer preservative-free.Antiallergic drops (e.g., olopatadine, ketotifen)
Class: Antihistamine/mast-cell stabilizers.
Dosage/Time: 1–2×/day during allergy seasons.
Purpose: Control itch/rub so kids can keep wearing myopia-control lenses.
Mechanism: Blocks histamine and stabilizes mast cells.
Side effects: Mild stinging; rare dryness.Ranibizumab intravitreal injection (for myopic choroidal neovascularization, mCNV)
Class: Anti-VEGF biologic.
Dosage/Time: 0.5 mg intravitreal; often 1 injection, then PRN if fluid/bleeding recurs.
Purpose: Treats vision-threatening bleeding in pathologic myopia.
Mechanism: Neutralizes VEGF to stop abnormal vessel growth/leakage.
Side effects: Rare serious risks: infection (endophthalmitis), retinal tears, IOP spikes.Aflibercept intravitreal injection (for mCNV)
Class: VEGF-trap biologic.
Dosage/Time: 2 mg intravitreal; usually PRN after initial treatment.
Purpose: Same indication as ranibizumab.
Mechanism: Binds VEGF-A/B and PlGF to reduce leakage/growth.
Side effects: Similar intravitreal risks; must be performed by a retina specialist.
Dietary & supportive supplements
Food first is best. Supplements can support retinal/ocular health, comfort, and overall wellness. They do not correct or cure myopia. Doses below are common adult amounts; children/pregnancy require medical guidance.
Lutein (10 mg/day) & Zeaxanthin (2 mg/day)
Support macular pigment and antioxidant defense; may improve contrast/visual comfort.Omega-3 (EPA+DHA 500–1000 mg/day)
Supports tear film and anti-inflammatory balance; helpful for contact lens comfort.Vitamin D3 (individualized; many adults 800–2000 IU/day)
Low levels are associated with more myopia in some studies; maintain sufficiency—avoid excess.Vitamin A from food or multivitamin (avoid high-dose retinol)
Essential for photoreceptor function; prefer colorful vegetables/beta-carotene; beware toxicity with high-dose supplements.Vitamin C (≈500 mg/day)
Antioxidant support for ocular tissues and collagen.Vitamin E (≈100–200 IU/day)
Works with vitamin C to limit oxidative stress.Zinc (8–11 mg/day) with Copper (1–2 mg/day if long-term)
Cofactor for retinal enzymes; balance zinc with copper.Astaxanthin (4–12 mg/day)
Potent carotenoid antioxidant; may help eye strain and microcirculation.Bilberry/anthocyanins (≈80–160 mg/day standardized)
May support night vision adaptation and comfort during near work.Taurine (500–1000 mg/day)
Amino acid abundant in retina; theoretical neuroprotective roles.Alpha-lipoic acid (300–600 mg/day)
Universal antioxidant; supports mitochondrial function.Coenzyme Q10 (100–200 mg/day)
Mitochondrial support; sometimes paired with ALA for fatigue/strain.Magnesium (200–400 mg/day as glycinate or citrate)
General neuromuscular support; may help headache/eye strain.Saffron extract (≈20–30 mg/day)
Early research suggests retinal function support; avoid in pregnancy.Probiotics (strain-specific, per label)
Overall wellness; indirect effects via inflammation/immune balance.
Always discuss supplements with your clinician to avoid interactions (e.g., anticoagulants with ginkgo/bilberry; vitamin A in pregnancy).
Regenerative / stem-cell
There are no approved stem-cell or immune drugs that slow ordinary childhood myopia. The items below are either for complications of high/pathologic myopia or experimental. Included for completeness:
Ranibizumab (0.5 mg intravitreal) – anti-VEGF
Function/Mechanism: Blocks VEGF to treat myopic CNV (new, leaky vessels).
Dosage: Single injection then PRN under retina specialist care.Aflibercept (2 mg intravitreal) – VEGF trap
Function/Mechanism: Binds VEGF-A/B & PlGF; treats mCNV.
Dosage: Injection PRN regimen.Brolucizumab (6 mg intravitreal) – anti-VEGF, off-label for mCNV
Function/Mechanism: Potent VEGF inhibition.
Caution: Associated with intraocular inflammation/vasculitis in some patients; not routine for mCNV.Faricimab (6 mg intravitreal) – anti-VEGF/anti-Ang-2, investigational in mCNV
Function/Mechanism: Dual-pathway vascular stabilization.
Status: Primarily approved for other retinal diseases; mCNV data are emerging.RPE/retinal stem-cell therapies – research only
Function/Mechanism: Replace/support damaged retinal pigment epithelium in advanced myopic maculopathy.
Dosage: One-time surgical implantation of cell sheets/suspensions in trials.
Note: Experimental; benefits/risks under study.Scleral cross-linking (riboflavin + light) – experimental
Function/Mechanism: Intends to stiffen the sclera to resist elongation.
Dosage: Procedural exposure; not standardized; not approved for routine myopia control.
Surgical options
Surgery does not treat childhood progression. It corrects refractive error in stable adult myopia. One procedure targets high-myopia complications.
LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis)
Procedure: A thin corneal flap is created and lifted; an excimer laser reshapes the underlying cornea; flap is repositioned.
Why: Quick recovery, excellent vision for many adults with stable myopia and adequate corneal thickness.PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)
Procedure: Surface epithelium is removed; laser reshapes the cornea; a bandage contact lens aids healing.
Why: Good for thinner corneas or dry-eye-prone patients where LASIK flap is not ideal; slower healing than LASIK.SMILE (Small-Incision Lenticule Extraction)
Procedure: A femtosecond laser creates a tiny lens-shaped piece within the cornea; the surgeon removes it through a small incision.
Why: Minimally invasive; preserves more corneal nerves; useful for moderate-to-high myopia.Phakic intraocular lens (ICL/implantable collamer lens)
Procedure: A lens is placed inside the eye in front of the natural lens without removing it.
Why: Suitable for high myopia or thin corneas not safe for laser; reversible in principle.Posterior scleral reinforcement (PSR) – specialized surgery
Procedure: A graft is placed on the back of the eye to support the elongated sclera.
Why: Considered by subspecialists for progressive pathologic myopia; availability and evidence vary.
Prevention strategies you can start now
Outdoor time ≥2 hours/day (daily bright light is protective).
30–40 cm reading distance and the 20–20–20 (or 30–30) break habit.
Limit long, uninterrupted screen sessions; use larger text and bigger displays.
Good lighting for study and hobbies; reduce glare.
Ergonomic setup: upright posture, book stand, screen slightly below eye level.
Timely, accurate correction (glasses/contacts) to avoid squinting and strain.
Discuss myopia-control options early if your child is progressing (Atropine, Ortho-K, multifocal/dual-focus lenses, DIMS spectacles).
Regular eye exams (children: typically every 6–12 months; sooner if changing fast).
Healthy sleep schedule to support behavior and compliance.
Family plan: schedule outdoor play and study breaks just like meals.
When to see a doctor (don’t wait)
New floaters, flashes of light, curtain-like shadow in vision—possible retinal tear/detachment (emergency).
Sudden blur or distortion (straight lines look wavy)—possible myopic choroidal neovascularization (urgent).
Rapid prescription change in a child (e.g., ≥-0.50 D in 6–12 months).
Eye pain, redness, light sensitivity—especially if using contact lenses.
Headaches or eye strain that do not improve with breaks or proper glasses.
Before starting myopia-control treatments or if therapies are not tolerated.
What to eat and what to avoid
Eat colorful leafy greens (spinach, kale) and yellow/orange produce (corn, peppers) for lutein/zeaxanthin.
Include fatty fish (salmon, sardines) 1–2×/week for omega-3s that help tear film and comfort.
Choose eggs, nuts, and seeds (vitamin E, carotenoids, zinc).
Whole grains and legumes for magnesium and steady energy for long study sessions.
Hydrate well, especially if using contacts or spending hours on screens.
Limit ultra-processed snacks and added sugars that fuel fatigue and inconsistent focus.
Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke—toxic to ocular tissues.
Moderate caffeine/energy drinks, which can worsen dryness and sleep.
Be cautious with high-dose vitamin A supplements—prefer food sources unless prescribed.
If supplementing, pick reputable brands and clear them with your clinician, especially if pregnant or on blood thinners.
Frequently asked questions
Do glasses make myopia worse?
No. Glasses do not worsen myopia; they simply clarify vision. Progression comes from eye growth, not from wearing correction.Can myopia be reversed naturally?
You can slow progression in kids (outdoor time, low-dose atropine, Ortho-K, special lenses). In adults, myopia is usually stable; you can correct it with glasses, contacts, or surgery, but you can’t “shrink” the eye naturally.What’s the difference between standard glasses and “myopia-control” glasses?
Standard glasses only correct blur. Myopia-control glasses add peripheral defocus zones designed to slow eye growth in children.How effective is low-dose atropine?
Common strengths (0.01–0.05%) reduce progression for many children, especially at 0.025–0.05%. Side effects are generally mild; sunglasses help outdoors.Which works better: Ortho-K or myopia-control soft lenses?
Both can help. Choice depends on lifestyle, corneal shape, hygiene, and provider expertise. Some families prefer daily disposables (less care); others love lens-free daytime with Ortho-K.Is screen time the cause of myopia?
It’s not just “screens”—it’s sustained near work and low outdoor light. Books, phones, and tablets all count if used too close for too long.When should my child start myopia control?
As soon as progression is documented or if risk is high (young age, myopic parents). Early action usually works best.Will blue-light glasses prevent myopia?
There’s no solid evidence they slow myopia. They may improve comfort or sleep in heavy evening device users.Can adults use atropine to stop myopia from getting worse?
Adult myopia is often stable; atropine research focuses on children. Your doctor can advise if there’s a role for you.Is refractive surgery permanent?
Results are long-lasting, but eyes can change slightly with age. Surgery does not prevent future retinal risks of high myopia.Does myopia increase eye-disease risk?
Yes—especially high myopia. Risks include retinal tears/detachment, myopic maculopathy, glaucoma, and earlier cataract. Regular exams are essential.What prescription is “high myopia”?
Often defined as -6.00 diopters or more and/or axial length ≥26 mm.Can exercises or “eye yoga” cure myopia?
They can reduce eye strain, but they do not change the eye’s length or cure myopia.Is orthokeratology safe for kids?
When properly fitted and cared for, it’s generally safe. The biggest risk is infection from poor hygiene; strict nightly care and follow-up reduce risk.How often should follow-ups happen during myopia control?
Typically every 3–6 months to measure refraction and axial length and to adjust the plan.
Disclaimer: Each person’s journey is unique, treatment plan, life style, food habit, hormonal condition, immune system, chronic disease condition, geological location, weather and previous medical history is also unique. So always seek the best advice from a qualified medical professional or health care provider before trying any treatments to ensure to find out the best plan for you. This guide is for general information and educational purposes only. Regular check-ups and awareness can help to manage and prevent complications associated with these diseases conditions. If you or someone are suffering from this disease condition bookmark this website or share with someone who might find it useful! Boost your knowledge and stay ahead in your health journey. We always try to ensure that the content is regularly updated to reflect the latest medical research and treatment options. Thank you for giving your valuable time to read the article.
The article is written by Team RxHarun and reviewed by the Rx Editorial Board Members
Last Updated: August 13, 2025.
