Eye Pressure and Axial Length: Myopia Concerns - Ophthalmology

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Intraocular pressure and axial length?


Doctor, at my age, is it true that my axial length will no longer increase? Many activities can raise intraocular pressure, and elevated intraocular pressure can lead to an increase in axial length, which in turn causes myopia.
Doesn't that mean I should avoid activities that can raise intraocular pressure? However, many actions can increase intraocular pressure.
I'm a bit confused...

Wei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/01/28

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology


Hello Wei: The greatest harm of elevated intraocular pressure is to the optic nerve, leading to glaucoma, rather than myopia.
It is crucial not to allow excessively high intraocular pressure to cause permanent damage to the optic nerve.
Thank you for your message.

Reply Date: 2015/01/28

More Info


Understanding the relationship between eye pressure (intraocular pressure, IOP), axial length, and myopia (nearsightedness) can indeed be complex and sometimes confusing. Let's break down these concepts and their interconnections.

Firstly, it is important to understand that the eye is a dynamic organ. The axial length of the eye, which is the distance from the front (cornea) to the back (retina), can change during growth and development, particularly in children and adolescents. In general, the axial length stabilizes in adulthood, but it can still be influenced by various factors, including environmental and behavioral aspects.

1. Eye Pressure and Axial Length: Elevated intraocular pressure can lead to various ocular conditions, but it is not directly responsible for increasing axial length. Myopia is primarily associated with an elongation of the eyeball, which can occur due to genetic predisposition and environmental factors, such as prolonged near work (reading, using screens). While certain activities can temporarily raise eye pressure, such as straining or certain eye movements, these do not necessarily lead to permanent changes in axial length.

2. Myopia Development: The development of myopia is a multifactorial process. Studies have shown that excessive near work and insufficient outdoor activities can contribute to the elongation of the eyeball, leading to myopia. The relationship between eye pressure and myopia is not straightforward; while high eye pressure can be a risk factor for glaucoma, it does not directly cause myopia. Instead, myopia is more closely linked to the growth of the eye itself.

3. Behavioral Factors: You mentioned concerns about activities that can raise eye pressure. It is true that certain behaviors, such as heavy lifting, straining, or even prolonged eye strain from screen time, can temporarily increase IOP. However, these activities do not necessarily lead to permanent changes in eye structure or axial length. It is essential to maintain a balanced lifestyle, including regular breaks during prolonged near work and ensuring adequate outdoor time, which has been shown to help mitigate the risk of developing myopia.

4. Age and Eye Growth: As you age, particularly after reaching adulthood, the axial length of the eye typically stabilizes. However, if you have a history of myopia, it is crucial to monitor your eye health regularly. Changes in vision or discomfort should prompt a visit to an eye care professional.

5. Managing Eye Health: To maintain healthy eyes and potentially reduce the risk of myopia progression, consider the following tips:
- Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes of screen time, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This helps reduce eye strain.

- Spend Time Outdoors: Studies suggest that spending time outside can help reduce the risk of developing myopia in children and adolescents.

- Regular Eye Exams: Regular check-ups with an eye care professional can help monitor eye health and detect any changes early.

In conclusion, while there are activities that can temporarily raise eye pressure, they do not directly cause changes in axial length or myopia. It is essential to adopt healthy eye habits and consult with an eye care professional for personalized advice and management of your eye health. If you have specific concerns about your vision or eye pressure, it is always best to seek professional guidance.

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