Vision Therapy in Durham

The Link Between High Myopia and Serious Eye Diseases

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Are You at Risk?

High myopia, often referred to as severe nearsightedness, is a condition characterized by a high degree of myopia, resulting in significant difficulty seeing distant objects. While myopia can pose challenges, individuals with high myopia face an increased risk of developing severe eye diseases that can lead to vision loss. Understanding the connection between high myopia and these eye conditions is crucial for early detection and intervention.

woman rubbing eyes

man rubbing eyes

Defining High Myopia

High myopia is typically diagnosed when a person's prescription exceeds -6.00 diopters. It often occurs when the eyeball becomes elongated, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This structural change sets high myopia apart from mild to moderate myopia.

Serious Eye Diseases Associated with High Myopia

  • Retinal Detachment

    High myopia significantly raises the risk of retinal detachment, a condition where the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye, detaches from its normal position. This separation can lead to vision loss and requires immediate medical attention.

  • Retinal Tears and Holes

    High myopia can lead to the development of retinal tears or holes, which may be precursors to retinal detachment. These issues must be addressed promptly to prevent further complications.

  • Glaucoma

    Individuals with high myopia may face a higher risk of developing glaucoma, a group of eye diseases that can damage the optic nerve and result in vision loss. Regular eye exams are crucial to monitor and manage this condition effectively.

  • Cataracts

    While not directly caused by high myopia, individuals with high myopia may experience an earlier onset of cataracts, which cloud the eye's natural lens and lead to decreased vision.

  • Myopic Macular Degeneration

    High myopia can contribute to the development of myopic macular degeneration, a condition affecting the central part of the retina (macula). This can lead to central vision loss, impacting one's ability to see fine details clearly.

Strategies to Reduce Your Risk of Serious Eye Conditions

While high myopia is associated with an increased risk of severe eye diseases, there are steps you can take to reduce this risk:

  • Get Regular Eye Exams

    Routine eye exams are essential for early detection and timely intervention. Your eye care professional can monitor the health of your eyes and address any emerging issues promptly.

  • Myopia Management

    If you or your child has high myopia, myopia management strategies, including orthokeratology (ortho-k) and low-dose atropine, can help slow the progression of myopia and reduce the associated risks.

  • A Healthy Lifestyle

    A balanced diet, regular outdoor time, proper exercise, and lifestyle choices that promote overall health can contribute to better eye health. This can reduce your long-term risk of severe eye conditions.

  • Protect Your Eyes

    If you engage in sports or activities that pose a risk to your eyes, consider protective eyewear to prevent injuries that could exacerbate eye issues.

Patient Reviews
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19 Reviews
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- Oct. 18, 2024
My first time. Great experience with eye exam with Dr. Arnista. Kalli in the "eye-glass shop" area w... as also excellent. Overall, excellent experience.
- Sep. 18, 2024
The office is easy to work with and the staff is always polite and professional.
- Apr. 19, 2024
I have been a patient here since 2009 and I have nothing but excellent things to say about them. Th... e staff are all very nice, knowledgeable, professional and do everything they can to get you the care you need with the least amount of cost to the patient. I have 3 different eye insurance plans and they have always consulted them to see where I can get the best "deal". Dr. Sites is amazing and always explains everything in a way that I can understand. I highly recommend them! Thank you Durham Family Eye Care!!
- Dec. 08, 2022
I've been going here for quite a few years. I've never had a negative experience. The staff are wond... erful. They are so accommodating if you need to run in to have your glasses fixed or even to order another pair WITHOUT an appointment. The exams are quick and thorough. If you need or want an earlier appointment that the one given you're put on a 'stanby' list and you get a call or text as soon as someone cancels and are offered that appointment if you can take it. All insurance is excepted, included State of CT. I hope this review helps you to decide if this practice is the right one for you. I definitely reccomend going here.
- Apr. 14, 2021
Best eye exam and glasses purchase experience in many years. Entire staff was very professional, at... tentive to details and was never felt rushed. Will definitely be coming back here for future eye care.
- Apr. 09, 2021
Everyone at this office is super friendly, knowledgeable, willing and able to explain everything in ... a way patients can understand. They are up to date with tech and getting digital imaging of the back of the eye. I recommended them to one of my Neuro diverse clients and they also had a good experience there.
- Jun. 29, 2019
Love this place. Stopped in to make an appointment (haven't had my eyes checked in my entire adult l... ife), was able to get an appointment the same week. Was told 1.5 weeks to receive my glasses and they were in, in only 4 days! They worked with both my medical and eye insurance to get me the best price. They doctor was amazing, most soft spoken doctor I've ever met, very nice. She walked me through the entire exam and made sure i was comfortable the entire time. I have never had this great of an experience in any other doctors office! 5 stars. Would definitely recommend using them!
- Aug. 17, 2018
Dr Sites is absolutely amazing. She diagnosed an eye issue in my son at age 5 and worked extremely h... ard to improve his eye sight. Initial diagnose was by middle school even with glasses he wouldn't be able to see 20/20. And with years of hard work, he sees 20/20 with his prescription. The staff is so courteous and kind and helpful. Everyone is great here. I can't think of any negative thing about this office.

View All 19 Reviews

Myopia Management in Durham

(860) 349-2323

Our optometry practice in Durham

Meet our Eye Doctors

Photograph of Frances Sites
Hours
  • Monday 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm
  • Tuesday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Wednesday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Thursday 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm
  • Friday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
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  • VSP
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Durham Family Eye Care: Your First Line of Defence Against High Myopia

The link between high myopia and serious eye diseases underscores the importance of proactive eye care. If you have high myopia or a family history of the condition, regular eye exams and discussions with your eye care professional are vital to safeguard your vision and reduce the associated risks.

Contact Durham Family Eye Care to schedule an eye exam, and let us guide you through high myopia and its potential impact on your eye health.

(860) 349-2323

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