What causes myopia?
Sep 18, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Shuai
Introduction
In general, myopia may be caused by genetic factors, poor eye-use habits, pseudomyopia, axial myopia, or fundus lesions associated with high myopia. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate interventions under a doctor's guidance. In daily life, maintain regular作息 (sleep-wake cycles), avoid staying up late, and spend at least two hours outdoors each day to help slow the progression of myopia.
In general, myopia may be caused by genetic factors, poor eye-use habits, pseudo-myopia, axial myopia, or fundus lesions associated with high myopia. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate interventions under a doctor's guidance. The detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Genetic factors: If one or both parents have myopia, their children are at increased risk of developing myopia, with a more pronounced hereditary tendency in cases of high myopia. Regular vision check-ups are recommended, with monitoring of visual development from childhood to detect abnormalities early.
2. Poor eye-use habits: Prolonged near-work activities, inadequate lighting during reading, and incorrect posture can lead to ciliary muscle tension in the eye, contributing to myopia. Limit continuous near-vision tasks to 30–40 minutes followed by a 5–10 minute break; ensure adequate lighting and maintain a distance of 30–40 cm between the eyes and reading material.
3. Pseudo-myopia: This temporary decline in vision results from ciliary muscle spasm causing reduced lens accommodation. Treatment may include ophthalmic solutions such as compound tropicamide eye drops, raceanisodamine eye drops, or tropicamide eye drops, as prescribed by a physician, along with eye exercises and distant-gazing training to relieve symptoms.
4. Axial myopia: This common type of myopia occurs when the eyeball is too long, causing light to focus in front of the retina. Vision can be corrected with eyeglasses or contact lenses. Eligible individuals may consider refractive surgery such as femtosecond laser surgery or implantable collamer lens implantation to improve vision.
5. Fundus lesions in high myopia: Myopia exceeding 600 degrees increases the risk of retinal degeneration, retinal holes, and other complications that worsen vision loss. Regular fundus examinations are essential. Symptom management may include lutein soft capsules, vitamin A palmitate ophthalmic gel, or compound thrombosis capsules as directed by a physician. Retinal laser photocoagulation should be performed promptly if retinal holes are detected.
Daily recommendations include maintaining a regular sleep schedule and avoiding late nights; spending at least two hours daily on outdoor activities to slow myopia progression; and for individuals with high myopia, avoiding strenuous exercise to prevent ocular trauma from external impact.
