High Myopia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options - Ophthalmology

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High myopia, also known as pathological myopia, is a severe form of nearsightedness where the eye elongates excessively, leading to a refractive error that significantly impairs vision. This condition is typically defined as myopia greater than -6.00 diopters or an axial length greater than 26.5 mm. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for high myopia is crucial, especially for individuals like your friend who experience sudden changes in vision and associated symptoms like headaches.


Causes of High Myopia
The exact cause of high myopia is multifactorial. Genetic predisposition plays a significant role, as individuals with a family history of myopia are at a higher risk. Environmental factors, such as prolonged near work (like reading or using screens) and insufficient outdoor activity during childhood, have also been linked to the development of myopia. In some cases, high myopia can be associated with other ocular conditions, such as degenerative changes in the retina, which can lead to complications like retinal detachment.


Symptoms of High Myopia
Individuals with high myopia often experience blurred distance vision, which can worsen over time. Other symptoms may include:
- Eye strain or discomfort, particularly after prolonged periods of reading or screen use.

- Headaches, which can result from the effort of focusing on distant objects.

- Increased sensitivity to glare and difficulty seeing in low-light conditions.

- In severe cases, complications such as retinal detachment, cataracts, or glaucoma can arise, leading to further vision impairment.


Treatment Options
Treatment for high myopia primarily focuses on correcting vision and managing symptoms. Here are some common approaches:
1. Corrective Lenses: Prescription glasses or contact lenses are the most common initial treatment. For high myopia, high-index lenses may be recommended to reduce lens thickness and weight.

2. Orthokeratology: This involves wearing specially designed rigid gas-permeable contact lenses overnight to reshape the cornea temporarily, allowing for clearer vision during the day without lenses.

3. Surgical Options: For some individuals, refractive surgery may be an option. Procedures like LASIK or PRK can reshape the cornea to correct refractive errors. However, these surgeries are not suitable for everyone, especially those with very high degrees of myopia or other ocular health issues.

4. Regular Monitoring: Given the risk of complications associated with high myopia, regular eye examinations are essential. This allows for early detection of any changes in the retina or other structures of the eye.

5. Lifestyle Modifications: Encouraging outdoor activities and reducing screen time can help slow the progression of myopia, especially in children and adolescents.


Conclusion
In your friend's case, the sudden increase in myopia and associated headaches warrant thorough investigation. It is essential for her to continue seeking care from an ophthalmologist who specializes in myopia management. If standard treatments are not effective, further evaluation may be necessary to rule out underlying conditions or complications. Additionally, discussing the potential benefits and risks of surgical options with a qualified eye care professional can provide clarity on the best course of action.
Encouraging your friend to maintain regular follow-ups and to be proactive about her eye health is crucial. High myopia can significantly impact quality of life, but with appropriate management and care, individuals can lead fulfilling lives while minimizing the risks associated with this condition.