Nearsightedness, also known as myopia, is a refractive error that occurs when the eye is unable to refract light to a single focus, resulting in blurry eyesight. People with this eye condition can see nearby objects clearly, but distant objects appear blurry.
In today’s post, your eyeglasses specialists at Nova Vision Center debunk common misconceptions about nearsightedness.
Myth: Myopia Only Affects Children
Nearsightedness typically does develop in childhood, but it can also affect adults. In some cases, myopia resolves on its own or is corrected through different treatment methods.
Myth: Habitually Sitting Too Close to the Television Can Cause Myopia
Sitting close to the television may be a sign that you have myopia, but it does not cause you to develop the condition. People with nearsightedness often prefer sitting up-close a TV because they struggle to see from afar. If you’re experiencing hazy distant vision, visit your local eye doctor for an eye checkup.
Myth: Nearsightedness Worsens When You Wear Eyewear
Prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses are standard myopia control options that improve your vision; they do not cause it to worsen. When prescribing your new eyeglasses or contact lenses, your eye doctor will measure the degree of nearsightedness that you’re experiencing and assign the correct lens power to correct your vision error.
Another misconception about myopia is that it’s better to have a weaker lens power than the one prescribed by your eye doctor. This is false and defeats the entire purpose of using corrective eyewear. Lenses with the wrong prescription won’t correct your refractive error, which means you will still have problems seeing objects from a distance.
Count on Nova Vision Center for your eye care needs. After an eye exam, our eye doctor will provide an accurate diagnosis and offer effective treatment options. Call us today at (703) 291-0080 to schedule an appointment. We serve residents of Falls Church and Arlington, VA.