Vision Therapy in Sharpstown

The Link Between High Myopia and Serious Eye Diseases

(713) 774-1124

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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166 Reviews
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- Jan. 14, 2025
I've been a client for at least 40 years; need I say more. Probably not, but I will. When I got Lasi... k years ago, Dr. Chin personally walked me through the process; who does that?
- Dec. 13, 2024
I travel here from wherever in the US (and soon from Europe) I live because the attention and servic... e is second to none.
- Nov. 08, 2024
Dr. Allen is the best, he worked very hard to make sure my contacts fit perfectly. The staff is ver... y friendly, and helpful.
- Oct. 27, 2024
I went in for my granddaughter's glasses and there was so professional with her and made my granddau... ghter feel comfortable
- Oct. 22, 2024
Awesome customer service and very knowledgeable doctor and nurses!
- Oct. 22, 2024
My husband and I came to Dr. Allen J. Chin to get glasses and contacts yearly since 2014. The staff ... are courteous and the service is organized. We love our doctor because he remembers us even though we see him yearly. During Covid, we decided to get LASIK done in 2020 and he recommended us to do so. We were happy that he was present after our procedure which made us feel comforted. He checked our vision and educated us what to expect and changed to notice. We had no major complications and our checkups are fast. We had a visit recently and I asked him about when we should check our baby vision. He gave us his recommendation based on our history and how it would affect our baby and what to do to protect our baby’s vision. He and clinic are wonderful.
- Oct. 08, 2024
Excellent eye care and innovative doctor willing to go the distance to make sure you are happy with ... the vision you get with your contacts. Highly recommend!
- Oct. 03, 2024
Dr. Chin is very knowledgeable, caring, and responsible. His staff members are friendly and efficien... t. The office is clean and nice. Very pleasant experience.
- Sep. 30, 2024
Dr. Allen H. Chen provides comprehensive and is very knowledgeable. He has been my optometrist for a... Lifetime.
- Sep. 25, 2024
Good customer service and very knowledgeable staff that gives optimal care
- Sep. 19, 2024
Amazing Dr and staff. I’ve been coming here since the 1990’s, always a pleasant experience.
- Sep. 18, 2024
Dr. Allen Jr and his staff are the best. Excellent service😊
- Sep. 16, 2024
Dr. Allen Chin is one of the best optometrist in Houston. Great honest friendly doctor with plenty ... of experience.
- Aug. 31, 2024
They care about the customer and will go over and beyond for customer service.
- Aug. 25, 2024
I have been going to Dr Chin Sr. since I was 14 - 15 yrs old. Still the first class Eye care center... .
- Aug. 16, 2024
Both doctors and staff are amazing. They are helpful, prices are reasonable, good hours and they go... over and beyond to make sure you are satisfied with your glasses.
- Aug. 12, 2024
The doctors and staff are always thorough, patient, and helpful! I have been a patient of Dr. Chin's... for more than 40 years and have always experienced a superb level of care.
- Aug. 08, 2024
40 years of reliable care and service. Both doctors have kind demeanors and engage the patient in de... cisions.
- Jul. 16, 2024
Great service, fair pricing and nice location. The staff is really friendly and attentive.
- Jun. 24, 2024
Excellent eye care. Knowledgeable and efficient. I've been a patient of Dr. Allen Chin and his fat... her for about 20 years. Always a great experience.

View All 166 Reviews

Myopia Management in Sharpstown

Our optometry practice in Sharpstown

Photograph of Allen H.  Chin
Hours
  • Monday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Tuesday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wednesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thursday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Friday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Saturday 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • BCBS Federal Employee Program
  • Aetna
  • United Healthcare
  • Cigna
  • EyeMed
  • VSP
  • Spectera
  • Versant Health
  • National Vision Administration (NVA)
  • Medicare
  • Medicare Part B

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Lifetime Eyecare & Contact Lens 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 Lifetime Eyecare & Contact Lens Center to schedule an eye exam, and let us guide you through high myopia and its potential impact on your eye health.

(713) 774-1124