How Can I Prevent Myopia From Getting Worse?

Myopia is a refractive error that causes you to see near objects well while those at a distance appear blurry. For example, a nearsighted individual may only see road signs if they are a few feet away from them. Myopia is often diagnosed before an individual gets to age 20. A significant percentage of people have myopia.

Usually, you can correct myopia with eyeglasses, contact lenses, or a surgical procedure. Unfortunately, all that cannot prevent the condition from worsening. It only helps reduce myopia symptoms.

There is also a rare progressive type known as degenerative myopia that can progress and become severe. It can even lead to blindness. Nearsightedness has no cure, but there are several ways to slow its progression. Read on to learn more.

Vision Therapy

Daily eye exercises can help you if you are serious about slowing the progression of myopia. You may want to do these exercises more if you spend most of your time working at a desk job or school. Vision therapy is ideal as it utilizes movements such as accommodation, fusion, and convergence of the eyes.

You also do not have to do the exercises for the rest of your life. Once your eye muscles build strength, you can reduce the frequency of the workout. However, you will have to maintain a level of exercise to keep the eye muscles strong.

Take a Break From Screentime and Reading Habits

Nearsightedness develops if you spend most of your time looking at objects close by, like your mobile phone screen or computer. Spending long hours on your phone can be easy. However, staring at objects in near focus can worsen your eye condition. Give your eyes a break every twenty minutes and focus on other things. Blink to refresh and rewet your eyes.

Close reading for a long time can also worsen your myopia. Taking breaks is also necessary. You can also increase your reading material font.

Spend Time Outdoors

Myopia can progress if you spend most of your time in near focus. Taking some time to be outdoors is essential for your eye health. Spending most of your time outside will allow you to focus on objects at a far distance.

Ensure you protect your eyes by wearing UVA and UVB-blocking sunglasses. Frequently exposing your eyes to direct sunlight can affect your eye health. Talk to your eye specialist to get prescription sunglasses if you already wear eyeglasses or contacts.

Make Diet Changes 

Eat plenty of oily fish, vegetables, and fruits. Leafy greens like spinach and kale are beneficial for your eye health. Two to three servings of oily fish like trout or salmon every week can promote your eye health. Ask your doctor for alternatives like dietary supplements, walnuts, and flaxseeds if you do not eat fish.

Talk to Your Eye Doctor 

Consult your eye doctor about myopia progressing and worsening. Your specialist is always eager to help make your vision and eye health better. They will guide you to preserve your vision and keep it from worsening. They will also ensure that you remain on the right track in keeping your eyes healthy.

For more about myopia, visit Pinnacle Eye Group at our office in Lambertville, Michigan. Call (734) 562-0099 to book an appointment today.