Myopia is also referred to as nearsightedness. It is characterized by a difficulty in viewing objects that are farther away. Closer objects may be seen quite clearly.


This condition occurs when the eyeball is longer or when the cornea is too curved. The cornea is the clear shield that covers the eye. Due to these conditions, the light that enters the eye is not focused properly, resulting in blurry visibility of distant objects.




The exact cause of myopia is not known for certain, but there are certain factors that increase the vulnerability to this condition. These factors include hereditary and visual stress.  There is a large body of evidence which suggests that individuals inherit myopia or inherit the susceptibility to it. Many individuals with myopia have one or both parents with the condition. Although the tendency to develop myopia may be inherited, the actual development of the condition depends on how the individual uses his eyes. Those who spend a great deal of time reading or working at the computer may find themselves more likely to develop myopia. The same holds true for those involved in any work that involves intense use of the eyes. Myopia can could also develop due to environmental factors or other health conditions. Some individuals may have blurry distance vision only during the nights. This may be attributed to the lesser amount of light that enters the eyes. The size of the pupil may also increase when it is dark, thereby increasing the amount of peripheral light to enter the eyes. Those who engage in considerable near vision work may sometimes experience blurry vision when viewing distant objects. This is generally temporary and subsides once the eyes receive rest. But overtime, the continued stress on the eyes may lead the condition to become permanent. Symptoms of myopia may also develop due to changes in the level of blood sugar in individuals with diabetes.

If symptoms of myopia occur, one should consult an optometrist, who can test the person’s vision and identify the cause of the problem. Eyeglasses or contact lenses may be prescribed. These help to bend the images that enter the eyes, thereby focusing the images properly at the backs of the eyes. Vitamin A is very important for proper health of the eyes and good vision. One should increase the intake of this vitamin through foods such as cabbage, carrots, lettuce, tomatoes and raw spinach.