What is Myopia and Why Students Should Care

What is Myopia and Why Students Should Care

At the University Optometric Center, we are committed to not only providing exceptional eye care but also educating our student community on crucial vision health topics. One such condition, often overlooked until it begins to interfere with academic performance and quality of life, is myopia—commonly known as nearsightedness.

Understanding Myopia

Myopia is a refractive error that occurs when the eye grows too long or the cornea is too curved. As a result, light entering the eye focuses in front of the retina rather than directly on it, causing distant objects to appear blurry, while close-up vision remains clear.

This condition often begins in childhood or adolescence and tends to progress throughout the teenage years and early adulthood—making it particularly relevant to university students. With the increasing use of digital screens, prolonged reading, and reduced time outdoors, the prevalence of myopia is rising at an alarming rate worldwide.

Why Should Students Care?

For students, clear vision is not a luxury—it is a necessity. Whether it’s reading lecture slides, participating in lab work, or navigating campus, sharp distance vision is integral to academic success and everyday function.

Moreover, myopia is not just an inconvenience; higher levels of myopia (commonly known as high myopia) are associated with an increased risk of serious eye health complications later in life, including retinal detachment, glaucoma, and myopic macular degeneration.

Early detection and proper management are essential in slowing myopia progression and minimizing long-term risks.

Signs You May Have Myopia

If you experience any of the following, it may be time for a comprehensive eye exam:
 

• Difficulty seeing whiteboards or presentations from a distance

• Squinting to see clearly

• Frequent headaches or eye strain

• Holding books or screens unusually close

• Feeling fatigued after extended periods of visual concentration

What Can Be Done?

Fortunately, myopia is manageable. Prescription glasses or contact lenses can correct vision, and newer technologies—including orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses and multifocal contact lenses—can help slow progression. Lifestyle adjustments, such as increasing time outdoors and reducing prolonged near work, also play a role in prevention and control.
 

At the University Optometric Center, we offer personalized myopia management plans based on the latest research. Our goal is not only to correct vision but also to preserve long-term ocular health. 

Take Charge of Your Vision

Your college years are a time of intense visual demand. Don’t let undiagnosed or untreated myopia affect your academic performance or long-term eye health. Schedule your eye exam and let us help you see the future—clearly. Please call (949)-854-7122 or (949) 476-2870 to book an appointment and take charge of your eye health.