It is a refractive error popularly known as "nearsightedness". It is characterized by the fact that distant objects are seen blurry and close objects are seen clearly. Myopia In this case, the light focuses in front of the retina instead of the retina in the front of the eye. This causes distant objects to appear blurry.
Causes of Myopia
It is a common eye disorder known as farsightedness. Both genetic and environmental factors play a role in its development.
Having a family history is an important risk factor for its development. If one or both parents are myopic, their children are more likely to be myopic as well. A genetic predisposition may cause the eye to be longer than normal or have increased corneal curvature. This causes light to fail to focus properly on the retina, and distant objects appear blurry.
Environmental factors also play a big role in its development. Working in close proximity for long periods of time, especially during childhood and adolescence, may increase the risk. The increasing dependence on technological devices brought by modern life causes the eyes to constantly focus at close range. This may trigger its development.
Higher education levels and professions that require intense academic study may also increase your risk. Long hours of intense reading and writing activities can contribute to eye strain. Structural features of the eye and its growth rate can also be considered among the reasons. It may be caused by structural differences such as abnormal growth of the eye or the cornea being steeper than normal.
As a result, it develops as a result of the interaction of environmental factors together with genetic predisposition. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, its effects can be reduced and the quality of vision can be improved.
Myopia Treatment
MyopiaIt is a condition of not being able to see clearly in the distance and can be corrected with various treatment methods. Treatment options may vary depending on the patient's age, grade, and lifestyle.
The most common treatment is the use of glasses or contact lenses. Glasses provide clear vision by ensuring that light is accurately focused on the retina. Contact lenses are placed on the surface of the eye and help obtain a clear image by similarly correcting the light. Glasses and contact lenses are widely preferred due to their ease of use and low risk.
Orthotic lenses are special contact lenses that temporarily change the shape of the cornea by wearing them overnight. This method is used to correct mild to moderate symptoms and may reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses during daylight hours.
Some medications are used to slow its progression in children. This treatment is usually applied in combination with other methods. Nonsurgical methods for control include vision therapy and lifestyle changes. Especially in children, outdoor activities and spending time in natural light slow its progression.
As a result, several options are available for its treatment. The most appropriate treatment method is determined as a result of the evaluation made by the ophthalmologist.
Myopia Surgery
Myopia Surgery is a surgical intervention performed for permanent correction. These surgeries aim to improve the quality of life of patients by eliminating the use of glasses and contact lenses. The most common myopia surgeries include LASIK, PRK, and SMILE.
LASIK surgery is one of the most preferred methods of treatment. In this procedure, the outer layer (flap) of the cornea is removed with a thin cut and the underlying tissue is reshaped with a laser. Once the flap is placed in place, the healing process begins. LASIK is known for its fast recovery time and minimal discomfort.
PRK reshapes the cornea similarly to LASIK. However, in this procedure, the surface layer of the cornea is completely removed and laser shaping is performed. PRK is a suitable option for patients with thin corneas. The recovery process takes a little longer than LASIK and there may be more discomfort initially.
SMILE is an innovative method. In this technique, a thin lens (lenticule) is created inside the cornea with a femtosecond laser and removed through a small incision. SMILE is a minimally invasive procedure and offers a fast recovery time and low risk of complications.
The surgery usually takes 10-20 minutes and is performed with local anesthesia. After surgery, patients usually return home after a short rest period. In the first few days, your eyes may experience mild discomfort, watering and sensitivity to light. Full visual acuity is achieved within a few weeks.
In conclusion, myopia Surgery improves patients' quality of life by eliminating their dependence on glasses or contact lenses. For suitable candidates, these surgical interventions offer safe and effective results.