Vision Therapy in Alton

The Link Between High Myopia and Serious Eye Diseases

(618) 462-7611

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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459 Reviews
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- Dec. 11, 2024
Best place to go. These ladies are so kind and patient! 10/10 recommend
- Nov. 09, 2024
A+ very professional friendly and knowledgeable..
- Oct. 29, 2024
Great staff! Efficient and very knowledgeable about insurance. Staff is very accommodating! I wouldn... ’t go anywhere else. Dr. Levi knows what she is doing!
- Oct. 10, 2024
I was on a riverboat cruise and had lost a pad on the nose piece of my glasses. I had suffered for ... 2 days when we arrived in Alton. I took a chance and walked into Crown Vision Center, hoping they might make a repair for a decent price. I was greeted quickly and with kindness. When I explained my problem, the young lady said " I'll repair/replace both nose pads, just give me a minute". She did it in less than five minutes and would not charge me a cent! I would definitely make this my vision center of choice. Thanks you so much for your help and Midwestern hospitality.
- Sep. 15, 2024
Initial Kindergarten vision exam went smooth. Now the only doctor that my 5-yr-old daughter Jade is ... not scared to visit.
- Sep. 04, 2024
Katie was super quick, efficient, and very kind! She also found a few coupons to help with my glasse... s and contacts! The rest of the staff was also very friendly and professional.
- Sep. 03, 2024
Been going for years. Drove from Springfield IL to Alton because they was the only ones that heard m... e about my care. Thank you for listening and hearing me. 💚
- Jul. 27, 2024
Excellent staff! I love the Alton office!
- Jul. 17, 2024
Great place to get your eye's checked out and your eye need's
- Jun. 08, 2024
Katie was so professional, helpful and made my experience so easy with my insurance. She was the rea... son why I had such a pleasant experience and I would highly recommend Crown.
- May. 02, 2024
Always quick and the most helpful
- Mar. 29, 2024
My son and I love our treatment and glasses the team was wonderful
- Mar. 29, 2024
quick easy and nice people
- Mar. 21, 2024
The staff are very pleasant! Exceptional customer service!!
- Feb. 15, 2024
Good place
- Jan. 20, 2024
Friendly, fast service.
- Jan. 11, 2024
Dr. Levi and her staff are very professional and friendly
- Dec. 20, 2023
I was worried my Lined Bifocals would be dorky looking, lol, but I was surprised and impressed that ... they were discreet and barely noticeable, save your money and just go with the lined ones if you need them, also EVERYONE at Crown was friendly & professional. 🤓
- Dec. 18, 2023
Nice knowledgeable staff
- Nov. 12, 2023
Great place

View All 459 Reviews

Myopia Management in Alton

Our optometry practice in Alton

Photograph of Christina  Levi
Hours
  • Monday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tuesday 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Wednesday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thursday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Saturday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Sunday Closed
  • Dec. 25 Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Spectera
  • Medicaid
  • Anthem
  • Metlife
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • EyeMed

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

(618) 462-7611