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Nearsightedness (Myopia)

Nearsightedness (Myopia)

What causes myopia (nearsightedness)

If you are nearsighted, objects in the distance appear blurry and out of focus.

Most nearsightedness is caused by a natural change in the shape of the eyeball. Less often, nearsightedness may be caused by a change in the cornea or the lens. The change in shape causes light rays that enter the eye to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it, which leads to blurred vision.

Current as of: October 12, 2022

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Christopher J. Rudnisky MD, MPH, FRCSC - Ophthalmology

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