How to protect your vision during the colder months
As winter approaches, we often think about bundling up in warm clothes, staying cosy by the fire, and protecting ourselves from the cold.
Myopia
Short-sightedness
Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is a refractive error of the eye where close objects can be seen clearly, but distant objects appear blurred.
Genetics and lifestyle
Myopia often develops during childhood and adolescence, and its prevalence has been increasing worldwide in recent years. Genetics play a significant role in the development of myopia, but environmental factors such as excessive near work, lack of outdoor exposure, and prolonged screen time may also contribute to its onset and progression.
In 2010 there were approximately 2 billion people with myopia and this is projected to be rise significantly to 5 billion people by 2050. (Holden et al, Ophthalmology 2016)
There are many reasons for this increase. Our contact lens partners CooperVision UK, have summarised them in two categories, genetics and lifestyle:
Myopia in children increases when parents are myopic. The risk is nearly:
- 1 in 2 – When both parents are myopic
- 1 in 3 – When one parent is myopic
- 1 in 4 – When neither parent is myopic
Modern lifestyles may influence the development of myopia:
- Low levels of outdoor activity
- Prolonged near tasks such as reading and gaming on portable devices
- Poor lighting levels
(CooperVision UK, 2019)
Myopia symptoms
- Blurred vision when looking at distant objects.
- Squinting to see distant objects clearly.
- Eyestrain or headaches, particularly after activities that require focusing on distant objects for extended periods.
Regular eye examinations are important for diagnosing and managing myopia, especially in children, as early intervention can help prevent complications and ensure optimal visual development. For more information on why Myopia can be of a concern in children and the ways in which we can assist in managing it, please see our Myopia Control page.
