What does being “nearsighted” mean?
Myopia is the medical term for near-sightedness. Being near-sighted means that a person can see up close better than far away when they are not wearing contacts or glasses. Myopia is very common and usually does not lead to any significant ophthalmologic concerns. However, if the eyes are very near-sighted (high myopia), there is an increased risk for retinal tears and holes, retinal detachment, and other types of retinal disease that can lead to vision loss without treatment.
How is high myopia managed?
All people with high myopia should have an annual eye exam. A primary eye doctor can usually detect if a patient is at risk during a routine eye exam. If so, the patient may be referred to a retina specialist for a more thorough exam and possibly to discuss the need for treatment. At Retina Group of Texas, we have the latest diagnostic testing available, and, if required, most treatments can be done as an in-office procedure.