Pune: Myopia or nearsightedness is a matter of public health concern as it can lead to vision problems. Compared to the rural population, urban people are more prone to myopia due to factors like industrialization, anatomical problems, and increased usage of electronic gadgets. This problem can be corrected with the help of lifestyle changes like staying physically fit by exercising and limiting the use of mobile phones. Also, a regular eye examination will help you maintain a good vision.
Myopia that is also known as nearsightedness is a common condition wherein one can see objects near to him/her clearly. But, those objects located far away will appear blurry. One may encounter this problem when the shape of one’s eye causes light rays to bend incorrectly and focusing on images in the front of the retina and not on your retina. This problem has become worrisome for people residing in urban areas.
Dr Hemant Todkar, Consultant Ophthalmologist, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Pune, “Myopia or high negative number can set in urban people due to the curvature of cornea, industrialization, constant exposure to electronic gadgets, family history, greater time spent indoors, lack of a proper exercise regimen, and due to doing near vision work. Even children can suffer from this condition owing to online school and classes during the lockdown and not doing any extra-curricular activities. Around 4 out of 100 get myopia due to anatomical reasons while 12 out of 100 people have lifestyle-induced myopia.”
Adults having myopia exhibit symptoms such as blurry vision, headaches and difficulty in seeing objects during night time, while children may constantly blink or rub their eyes frequently. Myopia can affect one’s quality of life and can invite complications such as retinal detachment, cataracts, glaucoma, if not tackled at the right time.
“Embracing a good lifestyle can help correct myopia. Adults and children should regulate screen time. Exercise outdoors and do activities such as walking, running, or even jogging. Looking towards the sky can be beneficial as distance vision will cause relaxation of the accommodation and reduce myopia. Go for regular eye check-ups and choose proper eyeglasses or lenses. Also, refractive surgery will be advised depending on how serious the problem is,” concluded Dr Todkar.