Vision Test Results: Myopia Management and Eye Care Tips - Ophthalmology

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Hello! Thank you for your question regarding your recent vision test results and myopia management. It sounds like you have been actively monitoring your eyesight, which is crucial for maintaining eye health, especially with your current prescription of -750 and -725 diopters.

First, let’s clarify your vision test results. You mentioned that you can achieve a visual acuity of 1.0 with your current glasses, but a machine measured your vision at 1100. This discrepancy can arise from several factors, including the testing conditions, the type of equipment used, and the state of your eyes at the time of the test. The fact that you were prescribed a short-acting dilating drop (scattering agent) suggests that your eye doctor wanted to assess your eyes under relaxed conditions, which can sometimes yield different results.

Regarding your myopia (nearsightedness), if your glasses prescription is -750 and -725, it indicates that your eyes are indeed myopic, and the measurements you received (925 after dilation) suggest that your myopia may fluctuate based on various factors, including fatigue, lighting conditions, and even the time of day. It’s important to note that myopia can progress, especially during childhood and adolescence, but it can also stabilize in adulthood.

To maintain your current level of myopia and prevent further progression, here are some tips:
1. Regular Eye Exams: Continue to have regular check-ups with your eye care professional. This will help monitor any changes in your vision and allow for timely adjustments to your prescription.

2. Proper Lighting: Ensure that you have adequate lighting when reading or using screens. Poor lighting can strain your eyes and potentially worsen myopia.

3. Limit Screen Time: Try to reduce the amount of time spent on screens, especially for prolonged periods. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

4. Outdoor Activities: Studies suggest that spending more time outdoors can help slow the progression of myopia in children and adolescents. Aim for at least 2 hours of outdoor activity each day.

5. Corrective Lenses: Wearing your prescribed glasses consistently is essential. If you are considering contact lenses (like soft lenses), they can be a good option, but they should be fitted properly by an eye care professional to ensure comfort and safety.

6. Orthokeratology: Some patients benefit from orthokeratology (ortho-k), which involves wearing specially designed contact lenses overnight to reshape the cornea temporarily. This can help reduce myopia progression.

7. Healthy Diet: A diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, can support overall eye health. Foods like leafy greens, fish, nuts, and fruits are beneficial.

8. Eye Exercises: While there is limited scientific evidence supporting eye exercises for myopia control, some people find that exercises to relax the eye muscles can help reduce eye strain.

In summary, your current myopia measurements indicate that you are managing your vision well, but fluctuations are common. By following the tips above, you can help maintain your current prescription and potentially slow any further progression. Always consult with your eye care provider before making any changes to your eye care routine, and don’t hesitate to reach out with any concerns or questions about your vision. Your proactive approach to eye health is commendable, and I wish you the best in maintaining your vision!