Vision Therapy in Columbia

The Link Between High Myopia and Serious Eye Diseases

(573) 447-2020

Are You at Risk?

High myopia, often referred to as severe nearsightedness, is a condition characterized by a high degree of myopia, resulting in significant difficulty seeing distant objects. While myopia can pose challenges, individuals with high myopia face an increased risk of developing severe eye diseases that can lead to vision loss. Understanding the connection between high myopia and these eye conditions is crucial for early detection and intervention.

woman rubbing eyes


man rubbing eyes

Defining High Myopia

High myopia is typically diagnosed when a person's prescription exceeds -6.00 diopters. It often occurs when the eyeball becomes elongated, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This structural change sets high myopia apart from mild to moderate myopia.


Serious Eye Diseases Associated with High Myopia

  • Retinal Detachment

    High myopia significantly raises the risk of retinal detachment, a condition where the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye, detaches from its normal position. This separation can lead to vision loss and requires immediate medical attention.

  • Retinal Tears and Holes

    High myopia can lead to the development of retinal tears or holes, which may be precursors to retinal detachment. These issues must be addressed promptly to prevent further complications.

  • Glaucoma

    Individuals with high myopia may face a higher risk of developing glaucoma, a group of eye diseases that can damage the optic nerve and result in vision loss. Regular eye exams are crucial to monitor and manage this condition effectively.

  • Cataracts

    While not directly caused by high myopia, individuals with high myopia may experience an earlier onset of cataracts, which cloud the eye's natural lens and lead to decreased vision.

  • Myopic Macular Degeneration

    High myopia can contribute to the development of myopic macular degeneration, a condition affecting the central part of the retina (macula). This can lead to central vision loss, impacting one's ability to see fine details clearly.


Strategies to Reduce Your Risk of Serious Eye Conditions

While high myopia is associated with an increased risk of severe eye diseases, there are steps you can take to reduce this risk:

  • Get Regular Eye Exams

    Routine eye exams are essential for early detection and timely intervention. Your eye care professional can monitor the health of your eyes and address any emerging issues promptly.

  • Myopia Management

    If you or your child has high myopia, myopia management strategies, including orthokeratology (ortho-k) and low-dose atropine, can help slow the progression of myopia and reduce the associated risks.

  • A Healthy Lifestyle

    A balanced diet, regular outdoor time, proper exercise, and lifestyle choices that promote overall health can contribute to better eye health. This can reduce your long-term risk of severe eye conditions.

  • Protect Your Eyes

    If you engage in sports or activities that pose a risk to your eyes, consider protective eyewear to prevent injuries that could exacerbate eye issues.

Patient Reviews
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237 Reviews
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- Oct. 17, 2024
Quick, reliable and friendly service by a local team!
- Oct. 10, 2024
Dr. Jill Radkowiec is such a personable doctor and immediately puts you at ease. She is very thoroug... h in the medical process and helping you get what you need for your vision health. I would totally recommend her to anyone needing vision care.
- Sep. 08, 2024
Evie and the other ladies were very accommodating and Profesional. They made my 10 year old son and... I feel like part of the family
- Aug. 26, 2024
Dr. Jill was awesome and I love my glasses!!
- Aug. 09, 2024
Jill and staff are all pleasant and the upmost professionals. This is a well ran business and I high... ly recommend them.
- Jul. 04, 2024
Great service and my glasses were great, no adjustments needed!
- Jun. 16, 2024
Dr. Jill is really great! The staff is friendly and knowledgeable too. Do I mention how awesome Dr.... Jill is?! 😀
- May. 22, 2024
Hadn’t been to an eye doctor in 8 years, the care was great and the people were wonderful. Definit... ely recommend.
- May. 09, 2024
Everyone is fantastic, especially Evie, who not only possesses expertise but also patience. She is s... upportive and professional, a delight with which to work.
- Apr. 10, 2024
Amazinggggg staff, customer service like no other. Amazing group of ladies who run the show and mak... e you feel so great. Thanks for all that you do
- Mar. 14, 2024
All the staff worked together to bring my vision back to normal!
- Mar. 06, 2024
Very nice team!
- Jan. 15, 2024
They are very nice & polite.. very helpful.
- Dec. 09, 2023
Great experience! Friendly and thorough
- Nov. 30, 2023
Very friendly and attentive staff!!
- Nov. 10, 2023
Appointments are easily made. If urgent situations arise, the office is accommodating and supportiv... e. The staff are professional and the equipment is modern. Dr. Jill is excellent. Thank you for helping me with my vision needs.
- Oct. 10, 2023
Dr. Jill and her team are not only professional but engaging. I appreciate the attention to detail, ... particularly the testing they did, in an effort to provide a baseline for my vision moving forward. From the initial call to schedule the visit all the way through picking out glasses the staff was exceptional. Their commitment to providing excellent customer service and optical care in a professional yet comfortable environment makes me give them a grade of A. I will highly recommend them to my clientele and look forward to continuing to work with Dr. Jill and her staff. On a side note I read many previous reviews on this business before deciding to contact and go with this office. I would encourage people to give this office a chance. When Dr. Jalali and his office became affiliated with another company change was bound to happen. Growing pains are always going to part of the process but I felt as though they were trying to improve on their short comings. Dr. Jill believes eye care is important and made me feel that from the moment she began our testing. If something were wrong I believe she would address it then even if it may put another appointment behind. While not always convenient I take comfort in knowing something isn’t being rushed and missed. I’m not a paid endorser rather an actual patient who happens to own a business myself. Reviews, be them good or bad, can cause people to miss out on a service or a provider who would be a perfect fit for them.
- Sep. 14, 2023
I feel I am receiving quality care.
- Aug. 19, 2023
Love my new glasses which is important for work. Thank you.
- Aug. 12, 2023
Friendly Staff and very knowledgeable

View All 237 Reviews

Myopia Management in Columbia

Our optometry practice in Columbia

Photograph of Jill  Radkowiec
Hours
  • Monday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tuesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Wednesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thursday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Friday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • Aetna
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Spectera
  • EyeMed
  • Anthem

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Advanced Vision: Your First Line of Defence Against High Myopia

The link between high myopia and serious eye diseases underscores the importance of proactive eye care. If you have high myopia or a family history of the condition, regular eye exams and discussions with your eye care professional are vital to safeguard your vision and reduce the associated risks.

Contact Advanced Vision to schedule an eye exam, and let us guide you through high myopia and its potential impact on your eye health.

(573) 447-2020