How can you tell if you might have myopic maculopathy? Common symptoms include
Myopic maculopathy is a condition that affects the retina and macula, which are crucial for central vision, in people with high myopia (severe nearsightedness). This eye condition occurs due to excessive elongation of the eyeball, which stretches and thins the retina, leading to degenerative changes in the macula. This condition can impair vision and, in severe cases, lead to permanent vision loss if untreated.
How can you tell if you might have myopic maculopathy? Common symptoms include
Severe nearsightedness
(greater than -6.00 diopters)
Prolonged progression
of myopia
Smoking and unhealthy
lifestyle choices
Severe elongation of the eyeball stretches and thins the retina, leading to macular damage
Older individuals with high
myopia are more prone to
degenerative changes
A family history of high
myopia or macular diseases
increases the risk
Extensive near work and lack
of outdoor activities during
childhood may contribute to
high myopia
How can you protect your eyes? Preventative measures include
Use myopia control in younger
individuals methods such as orthokeratology lenses, atropine
eye drops, or specialized glasses
● Maintain a balanced diet rich in eye-healthy nutrients (e.g., lutein, zeaxanthin, omega-3)
● Avoid prolonged screen use or near work; follow the 20-20-20 rule
Early detection of high myopia
can help prevent progression
Wear sunglasses to reduce UV-related damage to the retina
What can be done to manage or treat myopic maculopathy?
These injections help reduce abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage
● PDT involves injecting a light-sensitive drug (verteporfin) and activating it with laser light to seal leaking blood vessels.
● Vitrectomy may be considered if retinal detachment or macular holes occur
Low vision aids and
rehabilitation in cases of
severe vision loss
Regular follow-ups with an
eye specialist to track
changes in the macula