Many people still believe various myths about nearsightedness. However, not all of the information circulating is true. To avoid misconceptions, it's important to understand the medical explanation for this condition.
What is nearsightedness?
Myopia, or nearsightedness in medical terms, is a visual impairment in which a person has difficulty seeing distant objects clearly. This occurs because the image of the object falls in front of the retina, rather than directly on it as in normal vision.
As a result, distant objects appear blurry, while nearby objects can still be seen clearly.
Why Can Someone Experience Nearsightedness?
There are several factors that cause someone to experience nearsightedness, including:
- Genetic Factors
If parents have nearsightedness, the risk of their children experiencing the same condition will be greater.
- Close-up Viewing Habits
Using gadgets, reading, or working in front of a screen for too long without a break can trigger the development of myopia.
- Eyeball Growth
In some people, the eyeball grows longer than normal so that the image does not fall directly on the retina.
Symptoms of Minus Eyes that are Easy to Recognize
Some of the signs that are often felt include:
- Blurred vision when looking into the distance
- Frequent squinting to focus vision continuously
- Eyes feel tired quickly
- Headache after looking into the distance for a long time
- Difficulty seeing writing on signs or road signs
If you start to feel these symptoms, you should immediately have an eye examination.
Myths vs. Facts About Nearsightedness
❌ Myth 1: Wearing glasses makes your minus worse
✅ Facts:
Not true. Wearing glasses actually helps the eyes see clearly. Increasing nearsightedness is usually caused by eye growth or prolonged close-up viewing, not by the glasses.
❌ Myth 2: Eating carrots can cure myopia
✅ Facts:
Carrots are rich in vitamin A, which is good for eye health, but they can't eliminate nearsightedness. The nutrient only helps maintain eye health, not correct refractive errors.
❌ Myth 3: Nearsightedness can heal itself
✅ Facts:
Nearsightedness doesn't heal on its own. However, it can be controlled to prevent it from worsening rapidly.
How to Treat Nearsightedness?
Treatment for nearsightedness aims to improve vision and slow its progression.
- Use of Glasses or Contact Lenses
This is the most common and safe method to help clear vision.
- Myopia Control Therapy
In children, doctors may suggest certain methods to slow the progression of myopia, such as the use of special lenses or certain therapies.
- Refractive Surgery
Procedures such as LASIK can be an option to reduce or even eliminate dependence on glasses, provided that the eye condition meets the medical criteria according to the doctor's diagnosis.
- Lifestyle Changes
- Limit the use of gadgets for too long
- Apply the 20-20-20 rule (every ± 20 minutes, look at an object at least 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds)
- Increase outdoor activities
- Use sufficient lighting when reading.
When Should You See an Eye Doctor?
Get checked immediately if:
- Vision starts to blur
- Frequent headaches
- Eyes get tired quickly
- The minus feels like it's increasing
Routine check-ups at least once every 6 months - once a year are highly recommended, even if there are no complaints.
Conclusion
Myopia is a common condition that doesn't heal on its own, but it can be controlled with proper treatment. It's important to avoid believing myths and always rely on accurate medical information.
If your vision starts to blur, don't wait until it gets worse. Get your eyes checked regularly to maintain optimal vision health.
This article was written by Dr. Avizena Muhammad Zamzam, Sp.M (Ophthalmologist at EMC Cibitung Hospital).