VISION CONCERN

Short Sightedness

Also called: short sighted, shortsighted, nearsighted, near sighted, myopia, cant see far, blurry distance, cant see the board, blurry far away, need glasses to drive

Short-sightedness, also known as myopia, is a common refractive error that makes distant objects appear blurred while close-up vision is usually clearer. It often develops during childhood or adolescence and can gradually progress as the eyes grow.

TYPICALLY OCCURS

Genetics, eye growth and environmental factors

TREATED BY

Laser eye surgery, lens surgery, glasses and contact lenses

ALSO LINKED TO

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Why it happens?

Short-sightedness occurs when the eye focuses incoming light in front of the retina rather than directly on it. Most commonly, this happens because the eyeball has grown too long from front to back in relation to its optical focusing power. In some cases, the curvature or focusing strength of the cornea and lens can also contribute. Because the image is focused before it reaches the retina, distant objects appear blurred, while nearby objects can often still be seen clearly.

Genetics play an important role in myopia, and children with one or both parents who are short-sighted have a greater likelihood of developing it. Myopia frequently begins during the school years because the eye is still developing and may continue progressing throughout childhood and adolescence before becoming more stable in adulthood. Some people develop only mild short-sightedness, while others develop higher levels that require stronger vision correction.

Environmental and lifestyle factors also influence the development and progression of myopia, particularly during childhood. Research has linked spending less time outdoors and prolonged periods of close-up visual activity with a greater risk of developing myopia, although the relationship is complex and involves both genetic and environmental influences. Higher degrees of myopia are also associated with an increased lifetime risk of certain eye conditions because elongation of the eye can affect the retina and other internal structures. Regular eye examinations are therefore particularly important for people with significant or progressive myopia.

How far along is it?

Early

Distant objects may appear slightly blurred, particularly small text, road signs or details viewed from across a room. Near vision generally remains clear.

Moderate

Distance blur becomes more noticeable and regular vision correction is usually needed for activities such as driving, watching television or seeing clearly in classrooms and workplaces.

Advanced

Distance vision is significantly blurred without correction and a stronger prescription is required. High myopia can also be associated with a greater risk of retinal and other eye problems, making ongoing eye examinations important.

What addresses it?

Treatments that address this

Laser eye surgery→PRK eye correction→LASIK eye surgery→SMILE laser surgery→

An eye examination is worthwhile if distant objects, road signs, television screens or classroom displays are becoming difficult to see clearly. Children may squint, sit unusually close to screens or struggle to see information at a distance. Because childhood myopia can progress as the eye grows, regular monitoring is important once it has been identified.

People with high myopia should maintain regular eye examinations even when their vision is well corrected. Seek urgent eye care for sudden flashes of light, a sudden increase in floaters, a dark curtain or shadow across the vision, or sudden loss of sight, as these can be warning signs of a retinal problem rather than ordinary short-sightedness.

Quick Questions:

What are the first signs of short-sightedness?

The most common sign is difficulty seeing distant objects clearly. You may notice blurred road signs, difficulty recognising faces at a distance, squinting or headaches and eye strain during certain activities.

What causes short-sightedness?

Myopia usually develops when the eyeball grows too long relative to its focusing power. Genetics are important, while environmental factors such as limited time outdoors and extensive near work may also influence its development, particularly in children.

Does short-sightedness get worse with age?

Myopia commonly develops and progresses during childhood and adolescence as the eye grows. It often stabilises in early adulthood, although changes can continue in some people.

Can short-sightedness be corrected?

Yes. Glasses and contact lenses can provide clear vision, while suitable adults may also consider laser eye surgery or certain lens-based procedures. For children with progressing myopia, specific myopia-management approaches may be recommended by an eye-care professional.