Vision Therapy in Laurie

The Link Between High Myopia and Serious Eye Diseases

(573) 374-5222

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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118 Reviews
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- Feb. 24, 2024
Good choices, as well as great staff!
- May. 09, 2023
Walked in for help with glasses from a different store that didn't fit correctly and was quickly hel... ped!
- Feb. 16, 2023
Very friendly and attentive team!! Have been a patient for many years. Always a great experience!
- Jan. 20, 2023
My husband and I have visited many many eyecare places and Laurie Family Eyecare was the tops. Exam... was professional and accurate. The team of technicians and staff were incredibly helpful and was very accurate with our selections. Prices were so much lower then we have paid elsewhere. When we went to pickup our purchases they were even better then we could have imagined. Doctor Brad is kind, and so professional.
- Jan. 16, 2023
Excellent Drs, friendly staff, and they are quick to help if there is an emergency. I have been taki... ng my children here their whole lives.
- Dec. 31, 2022
Dr Brad was courteous, efficient and knowledgeable! His staff was great!
- Dec. 03, 2022
I've been coming here for nearly 10 years now. Wonderful service, caring staff and exceptional qua... lity!!
- Oct. 19, 2022
I've been seeing Dr. Groves (Masters) since 2009. She is the most informed, up-to-date, and caring ... optometrist I have ever known.
- Oct. 18, 2022
Everyone is so nice there
- Oct. 07, 2022
Highly recommended for eye exam and eye care
- Sep. 28, 2021
So friendly and helpful!!
- Aug. 18, 2021
a couple of staff that work the desk are somewhat pushy and presumptuous. but once you get passed th... em, the doctor is super friendly, helpful, and professional
- Jun. 15, 2021
Great staff. Super patient with my son. Did a great job explaining things.
- Jun. 12, 2021
Everyone did a great job. Highly recommend Laurie family Eyecare for your vision needs
- May. 02, 2021
Friendly, accurate and fair! Will definitely go back.
- Apr. 15, 2021
I love the ppl here they are professional friendly and know their business. I actually took my MIL t... here.
- Mar. 02, 2021
Quick, efficient, and very helpful when time to choose frames. My kids also love the doctors and sta... ff here!
- Feb. 26, 2021
I HAVE BEEN WITH FAMILY EYE CARE FOR MANY, MANY YEARS AND WOULD NOT GO ANY PLACE ELSE. DOCTOR EVELAN... D AND HIS STAFF KNOW MY VISION HISTORY AND THEY WORK VERY HARD TO KEEP MY VISION THE BEST IT CAN BE. THEY MADE ME FEEL SAFE IN A DIFFICULT TIME, (ie COVID) AND WERE VERY CAREFUL ABOT KEEPING THE WHOLE OFFICE AS CLEAN AND SANITARY AS POSIBLE. I LIKE THEM AND MORESO TRUST THEM WITH MY SIGHT. THANK YOU ALL FOR HOW YOU HAVE ALWAYS TREATED ME. KUDOS
- Dec. 19, 2020
Make it easy to get checked, come and go and buy new contacts.
- Sep. 22, 2020
No long wait, friendly staff and doctor. Good selection of frames.

View All 118 Reviews

Myopia Management in Laurie

Our optometry practice in Laurie

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Hours
  • Monday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tuesday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thursday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • Spectera
  • Superior Vision
  • Davis Vision
  • EyeMed
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield

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Family Eyecare - Laurie: 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 Family Eyecare - Laurie to schedule an eye exam, and let us guide you through high myopia and its potential impact on your eye health.

(573) 374-5222