Your eyesight worsening at 17 is often due to continued progression of myopia (nearsightedness), which commonly develops during childhood and adolescence.
Understanding Myopia and its Progression
Myopia typically arises because the eyeball grows too long, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This results in blurry distance vision. While myopia often starts between ages 7 and 13, it can continue to worsen throughout the teenage years, sometimes stabilizing in early adulthood.
Factors Contributing to Worsening Eyesight at 17:
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Continued Eye Growth: The primary reason for worsening eyesight in teenagers is the ongoing growth of the eyeball. As the eye elongates, the refractive error increases, leading to greater nearsightedness.
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Genetics: A family history of myopia significantly increases your likelihood of developing it. If your parents or siblings are nearsighted, you are more prone to experiencing worsening vision.
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Environmental Factors: Studies suggest that spending less time outdoors and more time engaged in near work (reading, screen time, etc.) can contribute to the development and progression of myopia.
What You Can Do:
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Regular Eye Exams: Schedule regular eye exams with an optometrist or ophthalmologist. They can accurately assess your vision and prescribe corrective lenses (glasses or contacts).
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Discuss Myopia Control Options: Ask your eye doctor about myopia control methods, such as:
- Atropine Eye Drops: Low-dose atropine eye drops can slow the progression of myopia in some individuals.
- Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Specialty contact lenses worn overnight reshape the cornea to improve vision during the day.
- Multifocal Contact Lenses or Glasses: These lenses are designed to reduce eye strain and slow myopia progression.
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Limit Screen Time and Near Work: Take frequent breaks from reading, using computers, and other near activities. The 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds) can help.
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Increase Outdoor Time: Spending time outdoors has been shown to have a protective effect against myopia. Aim for at least 90 minutes of outdoor activity per day.
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Proper Lighting: Ensure adequate lighting when reading or working on close tasks to reduce eye strain.
When to See an Eye Doctor:
If you experience any of the following, schedule an eye exam promptly:
- Sudden changes in vision
- Eye pain or discomfort
- Headaches associated with visual tasks
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Double vision
- Halos around lights
In summary, eyesight worsening at 17 is often due to continued eye growth and increased myopia, influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Regular eye exams, myopia control options, and lifestyle adjustments can help manage and potentially slow the progression of nearsightedness.
