Vision Therapy in North Richland Hills

The Link Between High Myopia and Serious Eye Diseases

(817) 281-3386

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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214 Reviews
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- Nov. 02, 2024
Dr Barber was very thorough and knowledgeable. I never felt rushed and I felt like he answered all m... y concerns.
- Oct. 30, 2024
I'm so thankful for Dr Barber at SW Vision Center. Although I'll dearly miss Dr Mario, both of thes... e docs are extremely knowledgeable. My vision is somewhat tricky due to normal scar tissue from RK 30 years ago. After seeing at least 5 docs who had no idea what they were doing and giving me prescriptions that never worked, Dr Mario recommended I just buy several strengths of readers (over 15 years ago). That was perfect until the last few months. I reluctantly had a prescription done with Dr Barbara last week and feel like I can see so much better now!
- Oct. 17, 2024
Very professional staff that listens. Dr. Barber does a wonderful job in listening and then finding... the solution.
- Aug. 27, 2024
Great Staff, very thorough eye exam. Nice selection of frames.
- Aug. 16, 2024
My appointment went really great! The office teams was friendly and efficient; just what I am looki... ng for at an appointment.
- Jul. 15, 2024
Dr Haley Vadilko is awesome! All of the staff are amazing! I would recommend to anyone.
- May. 18, 2024
Great friendly staff
- May. 09, 2024
Staff are all very friendly, doctor is thorough and they have early hours.
- May. 07, 2024
Dr. Vasilko and her staff are amazing. Definitely the best experience I've had for glasses and conta... cts (and I've been wearing glasses since I was in first grade). Courtney helped me pick frames that flattered my face and everything went great. Keep up the great work!
- Apr. 03, 2024
EXCELLENT! You know when some folks enter a room and the energy changes for the better! THAT was m... y experience with Dr. Mario Contaldi! He was VERY helpful and made it a GREAT visit. I'd give 10 stars if I could!
- Feb. 21, 2024
Dr. Vasilko is a great optometrist. Very informative and was quick to diagnose the problem my left e... ye was having! I will be coming back for future eye problems.
- Feb. 20, 2024
Great optometrist. Quick. Easy appointment and answered all my questions. The selection of glasses i... s immense. By far, the best selection of glasses in one place I have ever seen. The prices are reasonable. Recommended. The staff is knowledgable and easy to work with.
- Feb. 04, 2024
Great service for a perfect prescription!
- Dec. 28, 2023
Dr. Contaldi is the BEST!
- Nov. 14, 2023
I enjoy the personalized experience at Southwest Vision Center! The staff is super friendly, and th... ey make my yearly eye exams super easy.
- Nov. 02, 2023
Highly recommend. I no longer need reading glasses to read fine print due to RX change. Plus saved... money on contacts. Very nice staff. Best ever!
- Oct. 26, 2023
Great service! Friendly, welcoming, and professional. I'm glad I found them so close to where I live... .
- Sep. 01, 2023
Great staff and Doctor. Always friendly and professional.
- Aug. 22, 2023
Very nice experience, and I love my new glasses.
- Aug. 10, 2023
I've been going here since I was in elementary school, now I'm in my 30s! They've always been helpfu... l and staff has always been great. Definitely trust them with my vision!

View All 214 Reviews

Myopia Management in North Richland Hills

Our optometry practice in North Richland Hills

Photograph of David  Barber
Hours
  • Monday 7:30 am - 12:00 pm
    1:00 pm - 5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 7:30 am - 12:00 pm
    1:00 pm - 5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 7:30 am - 12:00 pm
    1:00 pm - 5:30 pm
  • Thursday 7:30 am - 12:00 pm
    1:00 pm - 5:30 pm
  • Friday 7:30 am - 12:00 pm
    1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Spectera
  • EyeMed
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Blue Cross

woman with contact in mirror

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

(817) 281-3386