Vision Therapy in Deerfield

The Link Between High Myopia and Serious Eye Diseases

(847) 412-0311

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.

Myopia Management in Deerfield

(847) 412-0311 Schedule Eye Exam

Our optometry practice in Deerfield

Meet our Eye Doctors

Photograph of Barry Eiden
Hours
  • Monday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Wednesday 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
  • Thursday 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
  • Saturday 8:00 am - 1:00 pm
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Spectera
  • Anthem
  • EyeMed
  • MetLife
  • Blue Cross
  • Aetna
Patient Reviews
- May. 03, 2021
Dr. Eiden is great! I am an optometrist from SW Florida. I was in the Chicago area recently and dec... ided to reach out to Dr. Eiden to see if I could stop by for a couple hours to observe and ask him a few questions. He is one of the best in the country at treating patients with keratoconus and other irregular corneal conditions with specialty contact lenses. I have heard him lecture on this topic at national optometry conferences in the past. His clinical knowledge is excellent. He is great at general optometry and at treating various eye disease such as glaucoma. He is a kind person who spent a few hours helping me and he has optometry school 4th year students rotate through his office as part of their externship training. He has the latest technology (more than I've seen in any office). So, you will receive the best eye care possible when you see Dr. Eiden.
- Jul. 04, 2020
There aren’t many things more important than our sight. I know because I was legally blind for ma... ny years. During those years NSVC corrected my vision and allowed me to go about my life with good vision in spite of the limitations of my damaged eyes. When it became more difficult to maintain my vision, Dr. Eiden suggested multiple surgeries to provide a more permanent solution to my problem. He put me in touch with a wonderful surgeon and the results of the surgery and his continuing care were nothing short of miraculous. Not only does this office provide the most professional care possible (I know - I’ve “seen” a lot of eye doctors), they are such nice people. They provide eye care for my wife, grown children and, now, my grandchildren. I’m so grateful for what they do for us. Don’t waste your time anywhere else.
- May. 04, 2020
I went to the office today for my annual check up. They have GREAT a great safe system set up. The... y took my temperature prior to letting me in the door. I had to call the office and a tech came to get me alone. We walked directly into the testing room. The Tech assured me the room was cleaned as well as all of the test machines I was to use. He maintained social distancing and everyone wore masks. I was walked into a room marked CLEANED. At the point the other tech went through the sight test and had distance while doing so. Then Dr. Eiden Came in with full scrubs on with his mask to perform the next set of test. They installed a plastic shield in between him and the test machine and me. Always maintaining as much distance as possible. I felt EXTREMELY Safe the entire time. Even the Payment/check out had the clerk come to the Door as I sat in the chair 8 feet away. I gave her my credit card number verbally, she wrote up the receipt and laid it on the chair and said she will mail me the receipt from the credit card. Great set up and organized.
- Jun. 07, 2019
Dr. Press is someone I have complete confidence in. He takes time to talk to you and does not rush y... ou. I have never had such a complete workup on my eyes with anyone. The girls in the Northwest Hwy office are wonderful.
- May. 14, 2019
I had my first visit and I have to say I was very impressed. Office entryway and interior was very ... clean and nicely designed. Dr. Milana Matz and her assistant along with the entire staff were very professional. Dr. Matz explained each and every procedure. I was also impressed with the equipment as everything appeared to be the latest and best providing patients with great examinations and results. Thank you Dr. Matz. I found a new eye doctor for my family.
- Mar. 08, 2019
Dr. Simic was great! She was very thorough and helped zero in on a vision problem my daughter has be... en experiencing for 6+ months. Courteous staff, modern office and facilities.
- Nov. 11, 2018
I visited North Suburban Vision Consultants for the first time this past week. The professionalism ... of the staff and the care I received was excellent! Dr. Matz was thorough and took her time to explain all tests and procedures as well as ensuring that my prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses were accurate. I would highly recommend North Suburban Vision Consultants!
- Oct. 22, 2018
Great job with a very difficult contact fitting.
- Sep. 04, 2018
My wife and I have been coming to North Suburban Vision Consultants for years. Their knowledge and p... rofessional skill is beyond the norm. Dr Matz and assistant Anna did a thorough exam with great personal attention and care. I highly recomend their services and know you will not be disappointed. they are at the top of their game
- Aug. 11, 2018
Very Kind, Capable, and Professional folks. I do recommend!
- Jun. 17, 2018
better than the best
- Jan. 15, 2018
Best doctor’s Dr.Eiden and his staff are the only One’s I trust for our vision! These doctor’s... really care and take time to explain everything. We live over an hour away but it is worth the trip that I make every single year I highly recommend Dr. Eiden!
- Dec. 21, 2017
Completely professional operation from top to bottom. Dr. Eiden, Dr. Matz , their staff and facilit... y are as good as it gets.
- Dec. 01, 2017
I have been a patient of Dr. Simic for more than 3 years , She taking care of every single detail i... n my treatment plan , She is the best , The staff and the office is state of the art . If you need the best vision care , the is one place , North Suburban Vision Consultant .
- Oct. 13, 2017
Anna (staff) was very knowledgeable and explained everything with great detail. Dr. Eiden was very p... ro-active and explained everything to me in great detail and did not try to sell me something I did not need. He was very honest and upfront about what might help my condition and what he thought was not going to help. He was very straightforward and I appreciated that. Would highly recommend.
- Sep. 07, 2017
Went to see Dr. Matz for eye infection, she was able to diagnose it in minutes and perscribe the rig... ht treatment, it was the easiest and most professional experience at the the optometry office yet. I highly recommend to anyone who wants an attentive and talented optometrist.
- Apr. 08, 2016
The doctors at North Suburban Vision Consultants (and the people helping out the doctors on rotation... to become ones themselves) are super friendly and very knowledgeable! The equipment in that office is state of the art so you're really getting the best eye care you possibly can!
- Dec. 18, 2015
I don't trust my sight to just anyone! The care at North Suburban Vision Consultants is by far the b... est I have ever encountered. You can rest easy under their watch. I highly recommend them!
- Nov. 29, 2015
Thorough and very high tech, this optometric/ophthalmology practice is a great place on the North Sh... ore for eye exams and lens fittings. A bit more pricey than most offices, the technology and expertise is worth the extra cost.
- Sep. 19, 2015
Great first visit for my Kindergartener! Dr. Vesna Simic and her staff did a great job in keeping my... little one happy and calm. Definitely will be back!

View All 56 Reviews

woman with contact in mirror

North Suburban Vision Consultants: 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 North Suburban Vision Consultants to schedule an eye exam, and let us guide you through high myopia and its potential impact on your eye health.

(847) 412-0311