Understanding Myopia at -16 and -14: Managing High Refractive Errors

At age 22, you have been diagnosed with -16 and -14 power in both your right and left eyes. This post delves into what these numbers mean, the risks associated with high refractive errors, and the steps you can take to manage and potentially prevent vision loss.

What Do the Eye Power Numbers Mean?

Eye power, often referred to in terms of diopters (D), measures the refractive error in the eye. A value of -16 for your right eye and -14 for your left indicates that you are experiencing a high degree of myopia, or nearsightedness. This means you have difficulty seeing distant objects clearly, and you need strong corrective lenses to correct the vision impairment.

Amyopia is typically measured on a 20-point scale, where 20 is considered perfect vision. A value of 0 indicates complete blindness. In your case, a value of -16 or -14 means your eyes can only see about 16 out of 20 points of detail, which is significantly impaired.

The Importance of Regular Eye Exams

Regular eye exams are crucial for maintaining good eye health and preventing vision loss. The American Optometric Association recommends that adults have an eye exam every one to two years, depending on their age and whether they wear contact lenses or not. For those with high refractive errors like yours, it is even more critical to see an ocular professional at least annually.

Eye power is calculated using the nearpoint of convergence (NPC) and the distance point of accommodation (DPA). The NPC is the distance from the nose to the point where the eyes need to converge to see something up close. DPA refers to the range of focus from distant objects to small text.

High Myopia Risks and Prevention

High myopia, as in your case, typically refers to an eyeglasses prescription of -6.00 D or higher. It increases the risk of several eye conditions, including retinal detachment, cataracts, and macular degeneration. These conditions, if left untreated, can lead to serious vision loss or even blindness.

Retina Detachment: The retina is a thin layer of tissue in the back of the eye that sends visual information to the brain. High myopia can cause the retina to become thinner and more prone to detachment, leading to vision loss.

Cataracts: Cataracts are a clouding of the lens in the eye, which can lead to blurred vision and difficulty seeing in low light conditions. While cataracts can occur in individuals with normal vision, they are more common in those with high myopia.

Macular Degeneration: Vision loss due to macular degeneration is a degenerative condition that affects the central part of the retina, known as the macula. High myopia increases the risk of developing this condition.

Preventive Measures and Management Strategies

While high myopia cannot be completely cured, there are steps you can take to manage the condition and reduce the risk of severe vision loss:

Wear Corrective Lenses: Regularly wearing prescription glasses or contact lenses is essential to correct the refractive error and maintain clear vision. Protect Your Eyes: Wear appropriate eye protection when engaging in activities that could cause eye injury. Stay Protected from the Sun: Use UV-protective sunglasses to shield your eyes from harmful UV rays. Regular Eye Exams: Schedule yearly visits to an eye specialist to monitor your eye health and detect any changes in vision. Outdoor Activities: Spend time outside every day, as exposure to natural light can help reduce the risk of developing myopia.

Conclusion

While having high refractive errors like -16 and -14 can raise concerns about potential vision loss, these do not necessarily lead to inevitable blindness. Early diagnosis and regular monitoring by an eye specialist are key to preventing further visual decline or preserving your current vision levels. By taking proactive steps, you can manage your myopia and maintain a good quality of vision.

Remember, regular checkups and proactive care can significantly improve your chances of keeping your eyes healthy and your vision clear.