Myopia or shortsightedness is a prevalent visual concern. It occurs when the image of a distant object gets focused at a point in front of the retina, the light-sensitive tissue layer lining the side and back of your eye—forming a blurred image. This leads to difficulty seeing objects that are far away, while close ones appear clear. 

People with myopia have longer than normal eyes, from the front to the rear. Myopia can develop gradually, leading to serious eye problems like cataracts and retinal detachment. Fortunately, managing and preventing myopia from worsening is possible.

Early Myopia Detection

The first benefit of annual eye exams is the early detection of myopia. Regular eye exams can catch myopia at its earliest stage when it is still manageable and treatable. Experts recommend children have their first eye exam at six months of age. 

This should be followed by exams at age three and again before starting school. After that, annual exams are recommended for children and adults alike. During an eye exam, your eye doctor will perform various tests to evaluate your eyes' health and measure your visual acuity. 

If myopia is detected, your eye specialist can prescribe corrective lenses or other treatments. They help effectively manage the condition. Early intervention is crucial in preventing myopia from worsening and reducing the risk of associated eye problems.

Tracking Myopia Progression

In addition to detecting myopia early, annual eye exams can help track its progression. Myopia tends to worsen over time, especially during childhood and adolescence. Your eye doctor can adjust your treatment plan by monitoring your myopia progression.

Preventing Severe Eye Issues

Regular eye exams help manage myopia and prevent more serious eye problems. Myopia increases the risk of several eye conditions, including:
 

• Cataracts - The clouding of the eye's natural lens

• Glaucoma - A group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve

• Retinal Detachment - When the retina pulls away from its normal position
   

While these conditions can occur for various reasons, myopia is a known risk factor. However, early detection and management of myopia reduce the risk of severe eye problems. Annual eye exams are the best way to catch myopia early and prevent it from leading to more severe eye problems.

Myopia Treatment

Orthokeratology, or ortho-k, involves wearing special contact lenses that reshape the cornea while you sleep, temporarily correcting myopia. Atropine eye drops are a medication that can help slow myopia progression in children. These treatments are most effective when started early and used consistently, making annual eye exams essential for tracking your myopia and managing it appropriately.

Conclusion

Regular eye exams are crucial for myopia management and prevention. Annual eye exams are essential to maintaining good eye health by:
 

• Detecting myopia early

• Tracking its progression

• Preventing more severe eye problems

If you or your child last had an eye exam a while ago, schedule an eye doctor appointment soon.
 

For more on myopia management and prevention, visit San Marino Optometry at our San Marino, California office.  We proudly serve the San Marino, San Gabriel, and Arcadia communities. Please call (626) 415-3600 to discuss any questions with our team of experts or to schedule an appointment today.