What are the ten causes of myopia?
There is no fixed concept of "ten causes" leading to myopia. Factors that may contribute to the development of myopia include improper eye use habits, lack of outdoor activities, excessive axial length of the eye, retinal diseases, and abnormal refractive index of ocular refractive media. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Improper Eye Use Habits
Prolonged near-work activities such as reading or using electronic devices may keep the eyes in a constant state of tension, thereby increasing the risk of developing myopia. It is advised to maintain correct posture during visual tasks, take regular breaks, and ensure adequate lighting conditions while using the eyes.
2. Lack of Outdoor Activities
Outdoor activities help relax the eyes and reduce visual fatigue. A prolonged lack of outdoor exercise may prevent the eyes from getting sufficient rest, potentially increasing the risk of myopia. It is recommended to increase time spent outdoors, aiming for 3–4 sessions per week, and to expose the eyes more to natural light, which benefits eye health.
3. Excessive Axial Length of the Eye
The axial length refers to the distance from the front to the back of the eyeball. When the axial length is too long, the eye's optical system cannot focus light accurately on the retina, making myopia more likely. This condition is often related to genetic factors but may also be influenced by unhealthy visual habits later in life. Common symptoms include decreased distance vision and blurred vision.
4. Retinal Diseases
The retina is a critical light-sensitive structure in the eye. Conditions such as retinal detachment or macular degeneration can severely affect vision. Besides causing myopia, these conditions may also lead to visual field defects. They are generally associated with pre-existing eye diseases, genetic factors, or systemic illnesses. Patients may be prescribed medications such as Weic Yinqiao tablets, vitamin E soft capsules, or Compound Xueshuantong tablets according to medical advice.
5. Abnormal Refractive Index of Ocular Media
Changes in the refractive index of ocular media—such as the cornea or lens—can impair the eye’s refractive ability and lead to myopia. Such changes may be caused by eye diseases or drug effects, including conditions like cataracts or glaucoma. Common symptoms include blurred vision and eye discomfort. Patients are advised to seek prompt medical attention; treatments such as phacoemulsification surgery for cataracts may be recommended.
If vision decline is noticed, it is important to seek medical evaluation promptly, have vision tested, and wear properly prescribed glasses for visual correction, which helps alleviate discomfort caused by poor vision. In daily life, it is beneficial to consume eye-healthy foods such as carrots and blueberries, maintain sufficient sleep, and avoid staying up late, all of which support recovery and overall eye health.