Myopia on the Rise: How Myopia Is Affecting Today’s Youth
Lately, myopia — also referred to as nearsightedness — is spreading rapidly among the youth.
Myopia causes distant vision to blur, although nearby things are still clear, is now a global public health issue.
This surge is alarming experts such as Dr. Ruchika Kedia, a renowned ophthalmologist in Thane. It’s vital to understand what causes nearsightedness, what risks it brings, and how it can be prevented is crucial for protecting long-term eye health.
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== What is Nearsightedness? ==
Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a vision condition that happens when the eye is too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus before reaching the retina.
This leads to blurred distance vision, which makes it hard to see things like blackboards or people across a room.
More people are being diagnosed with myopia due to digital overuse and lack of exposure to natural light.
== Why is Myopia Increasing Among Young People? ==
Several factors contribute to the increase of myopia in children and adolescents:
1. **Increased Screen Time**
The amount of screen exposure among children has dramatically increased.
Constant screen use affects eye focus and contributes to worsening eyesight.
2. **Reduced Outdoor Activities**
Being outside reduces the risk of nearsightedness.
However, reduced sunlight exposure is associated with higher rates of myopia.
3. **Genetic Predisposition**
Kids with nearsighted parents are at a higher risk.
4. **Poor Visual Habits**
Reading in low light, holding books too close, and sitting too near screens are harmful.
== Complications Associated with Myopia ==
While basic myopia is easily corrected with optical aids, severe myopia may result in permanent damage.
Possible complications include:
- Retinal detachment
- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
- Myopic macular degeneration
Consulting an Eye Specialist in Thane can minimize future risks.
== How to Prevent and Manage Nearsightedness? ==
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1. **Regular Eye Check-ups**
Yearly check-ups are crucial for catching changes in eyesight.
2. **Encourage Outdoor Activities**
Let children play outside for at least 2 hours a day.
3. **Follow the 20-20-20 Rule**
This rule reduces eye fatigue.
4. **Proper Lighting and Ergonomics**
Make sure children don’t hold books too close or hunch over.
5. **Corrective Lenses and Advanced Treatments**
Glasses, contacts, Ortho-K lenses, and atropine drops are all options.
6. **Specialized Myopia Management Programs**
Doctors can design personalized programs to manage myopia.
== When to check here See a Doctor for Myopia? ==
Difficulty seeing far-away things or frequent complaints may indicate a problem.
Timely diagnosis leads to better eye health outcomes.
== Conclusion ==
Global rates of myopia are skyrocketing, particularly in youth.
But with proactive steps, like eye checkups, more time outdoors, and expert guidance, it can be managed.
Eye expert Dr. Ruchika Kedia stresses lifestyle changes to preserve vision.
Eye health today leads to better lives tomorrow.
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