Retinal Issues in High Myopia: Symptoms and Treatments - Ophthalmology

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High myopia, or severe nearsightedness, is a condition that can lead to various ocular complications, including retinal issues. As a high myopia patient, your concerns about potential retinal defects, eye pain, and the progression of myopia are valid and warrant careful consideration.

1. Retinal Concerns: The phenomenon you described, where vehicles disappear from your peripheral vision when looking straight ahead, could indicate a potential issue with your retina. Although you do not experience floaters, which are often associated with retinal detachment or tears, it is essential to have a thorough examination of your retina. Conditions such as lattice degeneration or peripheral retinal tears can occur in high myopia patients, leading to visual disturbances. If your eye care provider has not yet performed a detailed retinal examination, including a dilated fundus exam or optical coherence tomography (OCT), I recommend discussing this with them. Early detection of retinal issues is crucial, and if a defect is found, treatments may include laser therapy or monitoring, depending on the severity.

2. Eye Pain: The pain you experience in your eye, described as a sensation of something stabbing your eye, can be distressing. Since your intraocular pressure (IOP) has been measured as normal, it is less likely that the pain is due to elevated eye pressure, which can lead to conditions like glaucoma. Other potential causes of eye pain include dry eye syndrome, corneal abrasions, or even muscle strain from prolonged near work. It may be beneficial to discuss these symptoms with your eye doctor, who may recommend lubricating eye drops or further tests to rule out other causes.

3. Progression of Myopia: The progression of myopia, especially in high myopia patients, is a significant concern. While there is no definitive cure for myopia, several strategies can help manage its progression. These include:
- Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): This involves wearing specially designed contact lenses overnight to reshape the cornea temporarily, which can help reduce myopia progression.

- Atropine Eye Drops: Low-dose atropine has been shown to slow the progression of myopia in children and adolescents.

- Lifestyle Modifications: Increasing outdoor time and reducing prolonged near work can also help manage myopia progression. Studies suggest that natural light exposure may have a protective effect against worsening myopia.

- Regular Eye Exams: Regular check-ups with your eye care provider can help monitor your myopia and adjust your treatment plan as necessary.

In summary, as a high myopia patient, it is crucial to maintain regular follow-ups with your eye care provider to monitor for retinal issues, manage eye pain, and address the progression of myopia. Early detection and intervention can significantly impact your ocular health and overall quality of life. If you have any further concerns or symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out to your eye care professional for guidance and support.