does high myopia (-9) lead to blindness

Posted by Ann on April 26, 1999 at 10:47:38
Does high nearsightedness ultimately lead to blindness? Is there anything I can do to prevent this from happening? Visual training?Laser?

Posted by hfhs md - NI on April 26, 1999 at 12:41:37
Ann,
High myopia is usually defined as myopia greater than -6.00.  It does not always lead to blindness.  In fact most of the time it does not lead to blindness.  There is a certain number of patients with high myopia who develop retinal problems like bleeding, tears or detachments.  Retinal detachments and tears if they occur can be treated.
The most important thing is continued followup with your ophthalmologist on a regular basis.
This information is provided for educational purposes only.  Please consult your physician for diagostic and treatment options.
Sincerely,
HFHS MD - NI