Nearsightedness
Alternative Names
Myopia; Shortsightedness
Symptoms
- Blurred vision or squinting when trying to see distant objects (children often cannot read the blackboard, but can easily read a book)
- Eyestrain
- Headaches (uncommon)
Exams and Tests
A general eye examination, or standard ophthalmic exam may include:
- Measurement of the pressure of fluid in the eyes
- Refraction test, to determine the correct prescription for glasses
- Retinal examination
- Slit-lamp exam of the structures at the front of the eyes
- Test of color vision, to look for possible color blindness
- Tests of the muscles that move the eyes
- Visual acuity, both at a distance (Snellen), and close up (Jaeger)