Vision Therapy in Toledo

The Link Between High Myopia and Serious Eye Diseases

(419) 843-2020

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
4.9
478 Reviews
5
4
3
2
1
- Dec. 06, 2023
Dr. K is the best eye doctor I've seen in years! He was professional, funny, and addressed my concer... ns! Casey W. at the front desk was also wonderful, personable, and extremely knowledgeable about insurances which was a big help! Being able to schedule online is also easy and convenient!!!
- Feb. 15, 2023
I would like to share my wonderful experience with Eye Care Specialties on1/13/2023. I had my eyes c... hecked and needed new glasses and I received excellent service from Rachel Conger, who helped me find just the best frames for me and the lenses that I needed to suit my needs.. She is very knowledgeable about all her products and your services and very friendly and always willing and goes above and beyond to help me when I need help every time I stop by with a problem.. I have been a long time customer from here and have always been very satisfied with all your products and services… I would like to give Rachel a10+ on your scale of services because she is always willing to give 110% Thanks to all your great staff for their great work!!! 👍👍
- Sep. 22, 2021
A very professional team that provides excellent service.
- Sep. 11, 2021
Wendy the optician couldn't have been more helpful in making sure my lens script was right on the ma... rk. Just great! Doctor K always takes time to communicate well and provides a thoughtful and thorough examination. Very straight forward with listening and feedback!
- Sep. 11, 2021
Very nice staff; always helpful.
- Aug. 18, 2021
Would highly recommend! Dr. Kylee Kleppinger is knowledgeable & puts your needs as her highest prior... ity. All of the staff is friendly - from the front desk to the assistant that helps pick out your frames. They made the process as easy as can be!
- Aug. 14, 2021
Wonderful staff!
- Aug. 11, 2021
I have been going here for years and always get good service and attention from the staff here.
- Jul. 16, 2021
My 11 year old son loves the glasses he ordered. It was an awesome experience!
- Jul. 13, 2021
Very friendly service and excellent staff. Got everything taken care of right to the point and the p... atients comfort is their true number one concern. I would definitely recommend them to anyone needing eye work taken care of.
- Jun. 30, 2021
Absolutely an amazing experience the quality of staff to the quality of vision I have in the end I c... an't say enough for what happened there feeling pretty amazing that there's still good companies and employees that enjoy what they do and make their customers feel as good as they should thank you all for the enjoyable experience and the impeccable vision on the first shot mind you I don't think it could be any better congrats on that I'm kind of a pickier person I don't normally do reviews so if you're all listening to my rambling these guys are where you need to go for a life changing experience from what you thought you could see to what you can actually see
- Jun. 19, 2021
Excellent service, clean facilities, unrushed and care.
- May. 19, 2021
Staff are always friendly and super helpful! They also have a great variety of frames to pick from i... n all price ranges!
- May. 12, 2021
Friendly and knowledgeable staff!
- May. 09, 2021
Everybody were so nice & I felt very comfortable,
- May. 07, 2021
They are great! Punctual, mindful, caring and listen to what I have to say! The staff was friendly a... nd the office was CLEAN.
- Apr. 29, 2021
Friendly staff
- Apr. 24, 2021
The entire staff were time-efficient, capable, friendly, and helpful. The team at Pinnacle makes ge... tting and eye exam and new glasses easy and a positive experience.
- Apr. 15, 2021
Everyone was very welcoming and they all did a thorough exam. Glasses are very pricey though.
- Apr. 13, 2021
Very friendly, professional, I have faith in Dr. K and the entire staff.

View All 478 Reviews

Myopia Management in Toledo

Our optometry practice in Toledo

Photograph of Donna Baldwin-Mickey
Hours
  • Monday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tuesday 10:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thursday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Friday 7:30 am - 4:00 pm
  • Saturday Appointment Only
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Spectera
  • Superior Vision
  • Davis Vision
  • Anthem
  • EyeMed
  • National Vision Administration (NVA)
  • VBA

woman with contact in mirror

EyeCare Specialties - Sylvania: 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 EyeCare Specialties - Sylvania to schedule an eye exam, and let us guide you through high myopia and its potential impact on your eye health.

(419) 843-2020