Nearsightedness Gets Worse
It's common for prescriptions for glasses & contact lenses in children to grow stronger year by year. Why is this and is it preventable?
Myopia is a real problem. It is estimated that Myopia affects about 40% of the Canadian population.
Additionally, because myopia is caused by the shape of the eye changing, it increases the chance of other major eye problems such as retinal detachments, glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration.
What causes myopia?
In children:
- Heredity, somewhat. Even if both parents have myopia, there is still only a 50% chance that child will develop myopia.
- Near work stress. Too much time spent on computers, cell phones, texting and reading. (This does not include school work.)
- Lack of outdoor exposure.
- Diet - Studies have demonstrated diets high in saturated fat and cholesterol were correlated with increasing myopia.
- Visual efficiency. Eyes not teaming together and/or the lack of focus when reading.
In Adults:
- Accommodative (focusing) challenges
- Near-vision dominated occupations, such as spending all day on a computer
Effective Treatment Options are Available
We are experienced in preventing and treating Myopia in adults and children. We have many options available depending on your exact condition.