SNEC Explains: Myopia

Are you experiencing blurred vision when seeing near objects? You may be having Myopia (Short-sightedness or Near-sightedness).

What is Myopia?

Myopia (Short-sightedness or Near-sightedness) is a condition in which a person is able to see near objects well (when reading a book or working on the computer) but has difficulty seeing objects that are far away (road signs or bus numbers).

Myopia occurs when the eye is unable to focus light rays accurately on the seeing part of the eye, the retina.

What causes Myopia?

Myopia is caused by an eyeball that is too long, causing light rays (and the image data it contains) to fall in front of the retina.

How do I correct my Myopia?

Myopia can be corrected with concave corrective lenses such as in spectacles or contact lenses. These vision aids help to better focus the light entering the eye.

Other ways to correct myopia are refractive surgery options such as LASIK, Epi-LASIK and implantable contact lens, subject to assessment for suitability.

This article was contributed by Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC). For more information, visit SNEC's website at www.snec.com.sg.