Myopia Management: Myopia at -12 Prescriptions and Protecting Your Vision

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a condition where distant objects appear blurry while close objects are seen clearly. A prescription of -12 in both eyes indicates severe myopia, which can pose certain risks to your overall eye health. Understanding these risks and effective management techniques can help maintain your vision for years to come. Here, we provide insights into managing severe myopia and preserving your vision.

Risk of Vision Impairment

Severe myopia, while not leading to complete blindness, can significantly increase the risk of developing several eye conditions. These include: Retinal Detachment: A condition where the retina begins to detach from the back of the eye. This can cause sudden and severe vision loss if not treated promptly. Cataracts: Clouding of the lens in the eye, leading to blurred vision and a decreased ability to see in dim light. Glaucoma: Increased pressure within the eye that can lead to optic nerve damage and vision loss. While it is unlikely that you will go completely blind from myopia alone, it is crucial to receive regular eye examinations and care from an eye specialist to monitor and address any potential risks.

Protecting Your Eyes

Regular visits to an eye specialist and reducing screen time are key steps in protecting your eyes. Here are some practical tips: Regular Eye Exams: See an eye specialist at least once a year to monitor your eye health and address any emerging issues. Reduce Screen Time: Limit the time you spend looking at screens, especially from close distances. Ensure your screen is at a comfortable distance and adjust the lighting to reduce eye strain. Outdoor Activities: Spend time outdoors daily to give your eyes a break from focusing on nearby objects and to focus on distant objects. This helps maintain eye health.

Customized Eye Wear Solutions

If you need glasses for your screen use, optometrists can customize lenses to fit your specific needs: Computer Glasses: These specialized glasses are designed to reduce eye strain when using digital devices. They may include features such as blue light filtering and anti-reflective coatings. Pupil-Dilation with Retinal Assessment: Regular visits to an eye surgeon, where the pupils are dilated, can help monitor the health of the retina and detect early signs of potential issues. Phakic IOL Implantation: If you are eligible and a good candidate, phakic intraocular lenses can correct your vision without removing your natural lens.

Retinal Specialists and Expert Monitoring

For those with high myopia, especially progressive myopia, it is particularly important to see a retinal specialist. They can assess the risk factors, such as myopic conus and macular sub-retinal neovascularisation, which can lead to vision loss. Prompt treatment with intravitreal anti-VEGF drugs can help manage these conditions.

Remember, the progression of myopia tends to slow down after the age of 20, providing a window of opportunity to manage and stabilize your vision. Regular check-ups and proper eye care are your best tools in preserving your eyesight.

Conclusion

Severe myopia at -12 prescriptions is certainly a concern that requires careful management and monitoring. By following the advice of eye specialists and incorporating protective measures into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with myopia and maintain your vision for years to come.