Vision Therapy in Cherry Creek

The Link Between High Myopia and Serious Eye Diseases

(303) 321-1606

Are You at Risk?

High myopia, often referred to as severe nearsightedness, is a condition characterized by a high degree of myopia, resulting in significant difficulty seeing distant objects. While myopia can pose challenges, individuals with high myopia face an increased risk of developing severe eye diseases that can lead to vision loss. Understanding the connection between high myopia and these eye conditions is crucial for early detection and intervention.

woman rubbing eyes


man rubbing eyes

Defining High Myopia

High myopia is typically diagnosed when a person's prescription exceeds -6.00 diopters. It often occurs when the eyeball becomes elongated, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This structural change sets high myopia apart from mild to moderate myopia.


Serious Eye Diseases Associated with High Myopia

  • Retinal Detachment

    High myopia significantly raises the risk of retinal detachment, a condition where the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye, detaches from its normal position. This separation can lead to vision loss and requires immediate medical attention.

  • Retinal Tears and Holes

    High myopia can lead to the development of retinal tears or holes, which may be precursors to retinal detachment. These issues must be addressed promptly to prevent further complications.

  • Glaucoma

    Individuals with high myopia may face a higher risk of developing glaucoma, a group of eye diseases that can damage the optic nerve and result in vision loss. Regular eye exams are crucial to monitor and manage this condition effectively.

  • Cataracts

    While not directly caused by high myopia, individuals with high myopia may experience an earlier onset of cataracts, which cloud the eye's natural lens and lead to decreased vision.

  • Myopic Macular Degeneration

    High myopia can contribute to the development of myopic macular degeneration, a condition affecting the central part of the retina (macula). This can lead to central vision loss, impacting one's ability to see fine details clearly.


Strategies to Reduce Your Risk of Serious Eye Conditions

While high myopia is associated with an increased risk of severe eye diseases, there are steps you can take to reduce this risk:

  • Get Regular Eye Exams

    Routine eye exams are essential for early detection and timely intervention. Your eye care professional can monitor the health of your eyes and address any emerging issues promptly.

  • Myopia Management

    If you or your child has high myopia, myopia management strategies, including orthokeratology (ortho-k) and low-dose atropine, can help slow the progression of myopia and reduce the associated risks.

  • A Healthy Lifestyle

    A balanced diet, regular outdoor time, proper exercise, and lifestyle choices that promote overall health can contribute to better eye health. This can reduce your long-term risk of severe eye conditions.

  • Protect Your Eyes

    If you engage in sports or activities that pose a risk to your eyes, consider protective eyewear to prevent injuries that could exacerbate eye issues.

Patient Reviews
4.3
91 Reviews
5
4
3
2
1
- Oct. 09, 2024
Dr. Sumner and his team are amazing! I require medically necessary scleral contacts due to corneal d... amage and Severe dry eyes. He is the first Doctor to fit me into the correct size and shape without pain and swelling. I have been wearing them since 2013 and he is the best Doctor for prescribing scleral lenses. He will keep trying until he has the perfect fit for you. Most eye doctors are not trained or skilled enough to fit scleral lenses and will not provide them. He was recommended by my medical corneal specialist M.D. I drive an hour each way to see him and he is worth it.
- Jul. 10, 2024
I want to extend my gratitude to Jesse for his exceptional customer service today. Visiting from out... of town on business, I realized I ran out of contacts. While my order wouldn't arrive for another week, Jesse went above and beyond by providing trial lenses to use in the meantime. His assistance was invaluable because I literally cannot see without my contacts, and I greatly appreciate his help. ---
- Mar. 13, 2024
Dr. Smith is a great eye doctor, she answered all my questions and made me feel listened to. Happy I... found this practice that is so thorough with all their patients. I also went and saw the other eye doctor here before and felt really comfortable and like he did a thorough job as well.
- Dec. 31, 2023
I can see, and be seen with my new specs
- Nov. 10, 2023
I got my scleral lens and eyeglasses from Sumner Vision. The staffs are excellent, especially Carli,... she helped me to choose glasses and patiently adjusted them when needed.
- Oct. 24, 2023
I’ve had a really positive experience with Sumner Vision. There was a mishap that took place with ... my lenses, and they offered a helping hand to make things right. I certainly appreciate businesses that make the customer feel cared for.
- Oct. 06, 2023
I love Sumner Vision! Dr. Smith and all of the staff are very helpful and patient. I love the glasse... s selection and the top tier equipment. They are always on top of their game.
- Aug. 07, 2023
Dr. Emily Smith is very kind, intelligent and listens to all concerns. Would recommend her for your ... eye care needs!
- Jul. 26, 2023
Dr. Smith is great as she listens to you, takes the time needed in the clinic to dive into your issu... es, and works with your specific situation to create the best option for your vision and your life. It’s nice to have found a trustworthy specialist to see regularly!
- Jun. 02, 2023
Love the staff in the front. The owner was open to my feedback so that is the reason I am leaving a ... 5 star review. They have a nice selection of glasses from great brands. I’m in love with my Dior glasses.
- Feb. 28, 2023
Best place ever they have help me so much with my keratoconus and all my vision needs thanks to dr. ... Emily smith and her team for all the help you guys are amazing👌🙏🏼😍
- Nov. 03, 2021
Informative staff, explaining all facets of the examination. Very helpful team helping me pick out ... my next frame!
- Oct. 11, 2021
Such an easy experience. Loved my exam, felt thorough and clear. Listened to my concerns and took th... e time to address them. Understanding of insurance benefits and options. My doctor was so sweet, made me laugh.
- May. 24, 2021
I got a pair of glasses with blue light filtering lenses and a person named Allen was extremely know... ledgeable and supportive throughout my experience! The office is very spacious and parking is ample. If you are looking for someone who knows this store in and out, ask for him!
- May. 23, 2021
I have been going to Dr Sumner for last 4 years, this is a amazing Optical office with excellent ser... vices from Dr. Sumner and his staff and thank to Alen for his selections on frame glasses to fit for me and my budget. Thank you so much.
- May. 17, 2021
From the time I entered the office, Dr. Sumner and his staff provided professional and comprehensive... optometry services. Each part of the process (insurance/billing, examination, eyeglass fitting) was completed with exceptional skill and expertise. Alan even helped us with a rebate! So grateful to have found an office with such quality care!
- Apr. 03, 2021
The office had such a nice, welcoming vibe. Dr Sumner and the rest of the staff were efficient, prof... essional, and pleasant to work with.
- Apr. 02, 2021
Veronica (Billing and Insurance) is AWESOME! She is extremely helpful and went way beyond what is ... expected to help resolve some insurance issues.
- Feb. 13, 2021
Highly recommend Sumner Vision. Allen really knows his inventory and listened to what I wanted. I wa... s really happy with the glasses he helped me choose :). Barbara and Brittany are wonderful as well, always welcoming and know how to treat their patients properly! 5 stairs to this team :).
- Dec. 06, 2020
Visiting your optometrist can be a bit daunting for some people much like going to the dentist. Ther... e is a lot strange equipment and big words being used which we have no clue as to their meaning. And, then after your exam, you get the hard pressure sale to buy frames and lenses. Well, NOT at Sumner Vision. They are kind and patient and understanding of the process from the patient's point of view. I cannot recommend them highly enough. Do yourself and your eyes a favor by visiting Sumner Vision.

View All 91 Reviews

Myopia Management in Cherry Creek

Our optometry practice in Cherry Creek

Photograph of Larry  Sumner
Hours
  • Monday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Thursday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Friday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Spectera
  • Anthem
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Blue Cross
  • MetLife

woman with contact in mirror

Sumner Vision: Your First Line of Defence Against High Myopia

The link between high myopia and serious eye diseases underscores the importance of proactive eye care. If you have high myopia or a family history of the condition, regular eye exams and discussions with your eye care professional are vital to safeguard your vision and reduce the associated risks.

Contact Sumner Vision to schedule an eye exam, and let us guide you through high myopia and its potential impact on your eye health.

(303) 321-1606