Can Myopia Stabilize During Teens?

It is a common misconception that myopia, or shortsightedness, can stabilize during the teenage years. In reality, this period can be a critical time for the development and progression of myopia. In this article, we will explore the causes, preventability, and reversibility of myopia, as well as how it typically behaves during adolescence.

The Causes of Myopia

Myopia, or shortsightedness, is a condition characterized by a negative refractive state where light focuses in front of the retina instead of directly on it. There are several factors that contribute to this condition:

1. **Excessive Near Work**: Engaging in prolonged close-up activities, such as reading, using electronic devices, and writing, can cause the ciliary muscles to remain in a state of spasm. This can lead to “pseudomyopia”, where the lens inside the eye is stuck in a close-up mode.

2. **Lens Focus Effort**: Wearing glasses for myopia with negative lenses can lead to increased focusing effort. This can result in further shortening of the eye through abnormal elongation, known as “Axial myopia”.

Preventability and Reversibility

While myopia cannot be entirely prevented or cured, there are steps that can be taken to manage and potentially reduce its progression:

1. **Wearing Appropriate Eyeglasses**: For individuals with low myopia, wearing plus lenses for near work can help in managing the condition. For higher myopia, reducing the power of the minus lens during close work can also be beneficial. This approach is known as “print pushing”.

2. **Understanding the Eye’s Dynamics**: It is crucial to recognize that the human eye is dynamic and responds to visual stimuli. Understanding this concept can help in managing and potentially reversing myopia.

3. **Scientific Research**: The scientific community has been studying myopia for over a century. Research by Francis A. Young, Earl Smith III, and Antonio Medina, among others, has provided valuable insights into the nature and progression of myopia. However, the optometry industry has sometimes been reluctant to share this information publicly.

Evaluation of Myopia Stabilization During Teenage Years

It is important to note that the stabilization of myopia during the teenage years is not a common occurrence. Typically, myopia tends to stabilize around the age of 22-24, after most individuals have stopped growing. However, some patients may show stability in their myopia prescriptions even during their teenage years.

For example, at a laser center, it is occasionally observed that a 19-year-old patient may exhibit stable prescriptions over the past few years. While this is not a common occurrence, it does indicate that stabilization can happen during the teenage years under certain conditions.

Conclusion

While it is a myth that myopia can stabilize during the teenage years, this is a common misconception. Myopia is primarily influenced by the shape of the eye, and it tends to stabilize once growth has ceased. However, it is more common for myopia to stabilize between the ages of 22 and 24.

Understanding the dynamics of the eye and taking proactive measures can help in managing myopia. If you or a loved one are concerned about myopia, consult with an optometrist or ophthalmologist for a thorough evaluation and personalized advice.

Keywords: myopia, stabilization, teenagers