Nearsightedness, or myopia, is a condition that occurs when the eye cannot focus clearly, making faraway objects look blurred.
Nearsightedness happens when the shape of the eye is too long or when the cornea, the clear outer layer of the eye, is too steep. This causes light rays entering the eye to focus in front of the retina, a layer of tissue in the back of the eye, instead of on it. This incorrectly focused light causes blurry vision.
The exact cause of nearsightedness is unknown, but evidence shows that many people inherit myopia or have a greater chance of developing it. Activities that can contribute to the development of nearsightedness include spending a lot of time:
Nearsightedness is common. It affects nearly 30% of the U.S. population.
Nearsightedness, or myopia, is a condition that occurs when the eye cannot focus clearly, making faraway objects look blurred.
Nearsightedness happens when the shape of the eye is too long or when the cornea, the clear outer layer of the eye, is too steep. This causes light rays entering the eye to focus in front of the retina, a layer of tissue in the back of the eye, instead of on it. This incorrectly focused light causes blurry vision.
The exact cause of nearsightedness is unknown, but evidence shows that many people inherit myopia or have a greater chance of developing it. Activities that can contribute to the development of nearsightedness include spending a lot of time:
Nearsightedness is common. It affects nearly 30% of the U.S. population.
Common symptoms of nearsightedness include:
People with nearsightedness might have difficulty seeing:
Nearsightedness usually first occurs in school-age children and progresses until around age 20.
An eye doctor can check for nearsightedness and discuss treatment options, including great options for teens, during a comprehensive eye exam.
See Also: What Happens During an Eye Exam?
Nearsightedness is corrected by refocusing the light rays that enter the eye.
Common treatments include:
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