ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Myopia

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is when you have trouble seeing things that are far away.

The eye has several parts that work together to help us see. One of these parts is the cornea, which is the clear front part of the eye. The cornea helps to focus the light that enters the eye onto the back of the eye, which is called the retina. The retina then sends a signal to the brain, which allows us to see the image.

However, if you have myopia, the cornea and/or the lens inside the eye bend the light too much, causing it to focus incorrectly on the retina. This means that what you see in the distance appears blurry or unclear.

Myopia can have a variety of causes. Sometimes, it can be inherited from your parents. Other times, it can be caused by certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or glaucoma. Spending a lot of time doing close-up work, like reading or using a computer, can also increase your risk of developing myopia.

If you have myopia, there are different ways to correct it. One option is to wear eyeglasses or contact lenses that help to bend the light in the right way, so that it focuses correctly on the retina. Another option is to undergo a surgical procedure that can permanently correct the shape of the cornea or the lens.

It's important to have regular eye exams with a qualified eye doctor so they can diagnose any vision problems, including myopia, and recommend the best course of treatment.
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