Myopia


Treating Myopia in Knoxville, TN

Myopia is an optometry term for being nearsighted. A person with myopia can see objects that are close but typically struggle with those that are farther away. Our eye doctors at Karns Vision Center treat a wide variety of eye health conditions, including myopia.

Myopia

What Causes Myopia?

Myopia is a condition in which light refracts improperly in your eye. It typically occurs when a person’s eyeball is either too long or the cornea is too curved. This causes images to focus in front of the retina instead of on it.

Warning Signs of Myopia

The most common sign of nearsightedness is having trouble seeing objects in the distance. You might have to squint, especially when driving at night. Furthermore, headaches are a common result of myopia due to eyestrain. Many children tend to deal with myopia and don’t always know how to express it. However, if you notice the following signs, it is important to get your child to an eye doctor:

  • Squinting or blinking a lot
  • Rubbing their eyes often
  • Moving closer to a TV or holding a device closer than should be necessary
  • The teacher moves your child to the front of the class due to vision issues

Risk Factors

The biggest known risk factor for myopia is genetics. More often than not, those with myopia inherit it. However, some issues can make the condition worse. Myopia often shows up in young children and adolescents. When treated early, the condition may be corrected. However, if left untreated and with certain lifestyle factors, the condition can worsen and become permanent.

For example, spending too much time reading or staring at electronic devices can have a negative impact. It is imperative to balance these activities with others, including getting outdoors. Your eyes need a break from intense focus.

Treatment for Myopia

The most common treatment for myopia includes corrective lenses, usually in the form of eyeglasses or contact lenses. These help focus the light that enters your eye correctly so you can see sharper images. You may also consider one of three refractive surgeries: LASIK, LASEK, and PRK. Each of these surgeries helps reshape the cornea, providing patients with better vision.

Contact Our Optometrists in Knoxville for Myopia Treatment

Not being able to see clearly can be scary, no matter what visual challenge you face. If you suspect that you or your child may have myopia and you live around Knoxville, contact our eye doctors at Karns Vision Center. Call our team today at (865) 247-7715 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.

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