Vision Therapy in Kent

The Link Between High Myopia and Serious Eye Diseases

(425) 251-9200

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
4.6
474 Reviews
5
4
3
2
1
- Nov. 18, 2024
Excellent and professional always.
- Nov. 14, 2024
Everyone is so friendly and helpful and they provide a lot of choices for frames.
- Oct. 26, 2024
Out of all the eye clinics I've been to from Issaquah to Bellevue to Kent, this is my absolute favor... ite one! They make it very easy to schedule an appointment online or via phone call. All the staff are so nice and helpful. Also, they have some AMAZING doctors!! I highly recommend this clinic for your eye exams, etc.
- Oct. 19, 2024
The eye technicians are practicing with diligence. Dr. Gelt is caring, detail oriented, and very pro... fessional.
- Oct. 10, 2024
General eye exam. Very efficient and professional.
- Oct. 10, 2024
Awesome service well worth the money.
- Oct. 09, 2024
Always a great experience with Clearvue!
- Sep. 26, 2024
Great customer service. Caring and professional optometrists. Able to get an appointment quickly. Re... ceived a thorough examination. Highly recommend for your vision care needs.
- Sep. 26, 2024
Office staff effective and efficient. Dr. Wang genuine!
- Sep. 25, 2024
Me and my husband were glad that we went to Clearvue Vision Center. From the receptionist to the Doc... tor and Doctor’s Assistant, up to the one helping us pick our eyeglass were all very nice, patientand knowledgeable not to forget, their prices were reasonable and the place was so clean and organized.
- Sep. 23, 2024
Very happy Dr Chan made me feel very at ease and comfortable. The ladies in the optical department w... ere so nice and helpful.
- Sep. 21, 2024
Friendly and very detailed
- Sep. 21, 2024
I had a great experience. Very friendly employees and Doctor Hart was great. Thank you
- Sep. 17, 2024
Friendly and efficient front desk staff and medical assistant. Dr. Heitmeyer was knowledgeable, thor... ough and friendly.
- Sep. 14, 2024
First eye exam and it went great! I loved picking out my first pair of glasses with Perla. She was a... mazing and so was everyone!
- Sep. 12, 2024
Friendly and courteous staff. Dr. Heitmeyer was great very welcoming and easy to talk to.
- Sep. 05, 2024
Good doctors and good associates. Their equipment is up to date. Learned a lot from them how to keep... my eyes healthy.
- Aug. 29, 2024
Dr. Brian is an excellent Optometrist !
- Aug. 29, 2024
Everyone at this vision center is absolutely so nice and friendly. It has been a long time since I'v... e had my eyes checked and I was very nervous. They put me at ease as soon as I stepped inside. Very glad I went.
- Aug. 22, 2024
I've been going to Clearvue Vision for years. The optometrist and staff are great and they have a wo... nderful selection of glasses frames.

View All 474 Reviews

Myopia Management in Kent

Our optometry practice in Kent

Photograph of Bryan  Heitmeyer
Hours
  • Monday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Tuesday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wednesday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Thursday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Saturday 8:00 am - 1:00 pm
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • Aetna
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Cigna
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Humana
  • EyeMed
  • Medicare Supplement
  • Avesis
  • Davis Vision
  • Health Alliance Insurance
  • Heritage Vision Plans
  • Railroad Medicare Beneficiaries
  • Medicare Part B
  • Multiplan
  • National Vision Administration (NVA)
  • Pacific Source Community Solutions
  • Spectera
  • Superior Vision
  • TriWest
  • VBA
  • Vision Care Direct
  • WellCare

woman with contact in mirror

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

(425) 251-9200