Which are the symptoms of High Myopia?

High myopia, also known as severe or pathological myopia, is a condition characterized by an excessively elongated eyeball, resulting in a refractive error where light rays focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This condition is typically diagnosed when a person's prescription exceeds -6.00 diopters. High myopia can lead to various symptoms and complications that can significantly impact a person's vision and overall eye health.

Symptoms of High Myopia:

1. Blurred Vision:

One of the most common symptoms of high myopia is blurred vision, both up close and at a distance. Objects may appear fuzzy or out of focus, making it difficult to see details clearly.

2. Difficulty Seeing Distant Objects:

People with high myopia often struggle to see objects that are far away. This can make activities such as driving, watching movies, or recognizing faces from a distance challenging.

3. Squinting:

To compensate for blurred vision, individuals with high myopia may squint their eyes in an attempt to improve focus. Squinting temporarily changes the shape of the eye, altering the path of light entering the eye and potentially improving vision clarity.

4. Eye Strain:

High myopia can cause significant eye strain, especially during activities that require prolonged visual concentration, such as reading, using digital devices, or working on a computer. Eye fatigue, headaches, and discomfort may result from the extra effort required to focus.

5. Sensitivity to Light:

Individuals with high myopia may experience increased sensitivity to light, a condition known as photophobia. Bright lights, sunlight, or glare from reflective surfaces can cause discomfort and even pain.

6. Floaters and Flashes:

High myopia can increase the risk of developing floaters and flashes in the field of vision. Floaters are small specks or cobweb-like shapes that appear to float across the visual field, while flashes are brief flickers of light. These symptoms may indicate a detachment or tear in the retina, which requires immediate medical attention.

7. Poor Night Vision:

People with high myopia often experience difficulties with night vision. They may struggle to see clearly in low-light conditions, such as dimly lit rooms or while driving at night.

8. Struggles with Depth Perception:

High myopia can affect depth perception, making it challenging to judge distances accurately. This can lead to difficulties with activities that require precise depth perception, such as playing sports or navigating stairs.

9. Increased Risk of Eye Conditions:

Individuals with high myopia have a higher risk of developing various eye conditions, including retinal detachment, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and cataracts. Regular eye examinations are crucial to monitor and manage these potential complications.

10. Reduced Quality of Life:

High myopia can significantly impact a person's quality of life. The limitations in vision can affect daily activities, academic or professional performance, and overall well-being. It may also lead to social and emotional challenges, such as feelings of isolation or frustration.

If you experience any of these symptoms or suspect you may have high myopia, it is essential to consult an eye care professional for a comprehensive eye examination. Early detection and appropriate management can help minimize the impact of high myopia on your vision and overall eye health.