Myopia in Cape Coral, FL

Close to 130 million people in America suffer from myopia (nearsightedness), making it one of the most common vision impairments. Nearsightedness is caused by a refractive error, which creates problems with focusing light correctly onto the retina. This is usually due to the shape of the eye. This, in turn, makes it difficult to see objects or focal points that are far away from the eye. In other words, distant objects or images may appear fuzzy, or you might be unable to see them all together. If you have been diagnosed with myopia, your condition may be classified as mild, moderate, or severe. At the Cataract & Refractive Institute of Florida, ophthalmologist Dr. James Croley can properly diagnose your condition and discuss a variety of treatment options to improve your vision. We conveniently offer locations in Cape Coral, Lehigh Acres, and Bonita Springs, FL. Call our office today to set up a comprehensive eye exam to get the personalized care you deserve. 

Typically, the most evident indication of nearsightedness is hazy vision when viewing items that are far away. Many people can also suffer from other issues, such as constant squinting or eye strain. Also known as eye fatigue or asthenopia, eye strain will often cause aching or dry eyes. It might also cause light sensitivity and pain in the shoulders and neck. Sometimes, patients who already wear prescription lenses for nearsightedness start to feel these symptoms. They are a clear indication that your eye prescription should be refreshed and that it may be time to schedule an eye exam.

Studies have shown that myopia can be either genetic or caused by certain activities. The fuzzy vision that occurs with myopia is due to the abnormal shape of the eyeball or cornea. If the eyeball is a little elongated front to back, or the cornea is distinctly domed shaped, any light coming into the eye can't be directed precisely onto the retina. In the majority of cases, myopia starts to develop in kids who are just starting school. Nevertheless, adults may also become nearsighted due to environmental factors or related health issues. A few things that have been linked to myopia are high-focus reading, writing, and looking at a computer screen or mobile device for extended periods of time. Myopia can also be associated with unmanaged blood sugar levels in patients with diabetes.

Diagnosing myopia is usually achieved by performing a standard acuity test. This is a simple vision assessment that evaluates the health of the eyes and how they process light. First, Dr. Croley or a member of his skilled staff will use a specialized device called a phoropter to check your vision. This is an instrument that has a variety of different lenses for you to look through to determine which prescription lens provides you with the best vision. The exam generally only takes about ten minutes to complete.

There are several treatment options available for myopia that can meet your prescription needs and lifestyle. Dr. Croley most often prescribes glasses or contacts to correct vision. Some patients opt to use a combination of both options to accommodate their active lifestyles and personal preferences.  The first step will be to set up a comprehensive eye exam at our office so Dr. Croley can examine the overall health of your eyes and vision. Our on-site optical center offers a variety of stylish glasses and contact lens options.

Nearsightedness is a very common vision impairment that is often easily treatable for the majority of patients. Wearing eyeglasses or corrective lenses can drastically improve the overall well-being of Cape Coral, FL patients. Call Cataract & Refractive Institute of Florida to find out more or schedule your exam with Dr. James Croley. We also offer locations in Lehigh Acres and Bonita Springs, FL.