What causes myopia?

Myopia is also called short-sightedness. It means you can see things close to you, but far objects look blurry.

Myopia is very common. It often starts in childhood and may get worse over time.

In this article, we explain what causes myopia and why it happens.

What is myopia?

Myopia happens when light does not focus correctly in the eye.

Instead of focusing on the retina, light focuses in front of it. This makes distant objects look unclear.

People with myopia may:

• struggle to see road signs
• sit close to screens
• need glasses or contact lenses

How the eye normally works

The eye works like a camera.

Light enters the eye and passes through:

• the cornea
• the lens

The light should focus on the retina. The retina sends images to the brain.

When the focus is off, vision becomes blurry.

The main causes of myopia

Myopia does not have one single cause. It often develops due to a mix of factors.

The most common causes are:

• genetics
• eye shape
• lifestyle habits

Genetics and family history

Myopia often runs in families.

If one parent has myopia, the risk is higher. If both parents have myopia, the risk is even higher.

This means genes play a big role. Still, not everyone with myopic parents becomes myopic.

Eye shape and growth

The shape of the eye matters.

Myopia often happens when:

• the eye shape is too long
• the cornea is too curved

This causes light to focus in the wrong place. Myopia often starts as the eye grows in childhood.

Screen time and near work

Spending a lot of time on close tasks may increase myopia risk.

This includes:

• reading
• using phones
• working on computers

The eyes stay focused up close for long periods. This may affect how the eye grows.

Lack of outdoor time

Studies show that outdoor time is important for eye health.

Children who spend less time outside may have a higher risk of myopia.

Natural light and looking far away may help slow eye growth. Outdoor play supports healthy vision.

Myopia in children

Myopia often begins in children or teens.

It may get worse as they grow.

Signs of myopia in children include:

• squinting
• sitting close to the TV
• trouble seeing the board

Early eye tests are important.

Can adults develop myopia?

Yes, adults can develop myopia too.

This may happen due to:

• long screen hours
• eye strain
• changes in eye shape

Is myopia getting more common?

Yes. Myopia is increasing worldwide.

More screen use and less outdoor time may play a role. This is why eye care is more important than ever.

Can myopia be prevented?

Myopia cannot always be prevented. But some habits may help reduce risk.

Helpful habits include:

• taking short breaks from screens
• spending time outdoors
• having regular eye tests

How is myopia corrected?

Myopia can be corrected in several ways.

• glasses
• contact lens
• laser eye surgery

Laser eye surgery reshapes the cornea to improve focus.

Is laser eye surgery an option?

Laser eye surgery can correct myopia for many adults.

Not everyone is suitable. A full eye assessment is needed to check eye health.

Why choose Vision Laser ?

Vision Laser offers:

• experienced surgeons
• advanced technology
• patient-focused care

Your safety is our priority.

Clear vision starts with knowledge

Understanding myopia helps you make informed choices.

Faites Take the Vision Laser suitability self-test today Find out if PRK or another treatment may be right for you. Vision Laser
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