Myopia in Adults: Causes and Treatments

Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is a refractive error that affects a significant portion of the adult population around the world. It is characterized by difficulty in seeing distant objects clearly, while near objects appear clear. Myopia can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life, as it can affect their ability to perform daily activities such as driving, watching television, or reading road signs.

Causes of Myopia in Adults:
There is no single cause for myopia in adults, as it can be influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. One of the primary causes is genetics. If one or both parents have myopia, there is an increased likelihood of their child developing the condition. Additionally, certain ethnic groups, such as East Asians, have higher prevalence rates of myopia.

Environmental factors also play a role in the development of myopia. Prolonged near work, such as reading or using digital devices, can strain the eyes and contribute to myopia progression. Spending excessive amounts of time indoors and lack of exposure to natural sunlight have also been linked to an increased risk of myopia.

Treatments for Myopia in Adults:
While myopia cannot be cured, there are several treatment options available to manage and correct the condition. The most common approach is to provide corrective eyeglasses or contact lenses that compensate for the refractive error, allowing clear vision. These lenses can be worn all the time or only when needed, depending on the severity of the myopia.

Another option for adults with myopia is refractive surgery. This surgical procedure aims to permanently reshape the cornea to correct the refractive error. The two most popular techniques are LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) and PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy). These procedures have a high success rate and can significantly reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.

Orthokeratology, also known as Ortho-K, is a non-surgical option that involves wearing specially designed contact lenses overnight. These lenses temporarily reshape the cornea, allowing clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or contacts. However, the effects of Ortho-K are reversible, and the lenses need to be worn regularly to maintain the corrected vision.

Another emerging treatment for myopia control is the use of atropine eye drops. These drops are applied to the eyes daily and have been shown to slow down the progression of myopia in children and adults. While atropine has proven to be effective, its long-term safety and efficacy are still being evaluated.

Preventing Myopia Progression:
As myopia progression can lead to higher degrees of nearsightedness, it is crucial to take preventive measures. Encouraging outdoor activities and reducing near work activities can help decrease the risk of myopia development. Spending at least two hours a day outdoors, especially during childhood, has been associated with a reduced incidence of myopia.

In conclusion, myopia in adults can be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. While it cannot be cured, there are various treatment options available, including corrective lenses, refractive surgery, and Ortho-K. Prevention is also crucial in managing myopia, as outdoor activities and limited near work can help reduce the risk of progression. With proper diagnosis and management, adults with myopia can lead fulfilling and visually clear lives.