Myopia
People who have myopia or nearsightedness have difficulty seeing distant objects, but can see objects that are near clearly. Myopia is usually the result of a larger than normal eye. In the myopic eye, light rays from distant objects focus before they reach the retina resulting in blurred vision. A tendency for myopia may be inherited; frequent or prolonged near work may influence its progression. Myopia runs in families and usually appears in childhood. Sometimes the condition plateaus, or sometimes it worsens with age but it generally stabilizes between the ages of 20 and 40 years of age.
Signs and Symptoms
- Headaches
- Eyestrain
- Squinting or fatigue when driving, playing sports, or looking more than a few feet away
- Blurred vision
- Inability to see distant objects clearly
Treatments and Prevention
- Eyeglasses
- Contact lenses
- Refractive surgery
- Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK)
- Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK)
- Corneal rings
UIC Specialists
Elmer Tu, MD
Tim McMahon, OD
Charlotte Joslin, OD
Any Comprehensive Ophthalmology Service Physician
Treatment Clinic/Service
Cornea and Refractive Surgery Service
Contact Lens Service
Comprehensive Ophthalmology Service
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor.