Debunking the Myth: Can Myopia Really be Reversed?
The notion that nearsightedness can be drastically improved, such as reducing a myopia of 800 degrees to 100 degrees, has sparked significant interest and debate. Recently, a 25-year-old netizen shared their experience of supposedly achieving this feat through methods described in a 1923 book titled "Perfect Eyesight." The techniques involved visual restoration, magnification effects, and control, allegedly leading to a substantial decrease in myopia over four months.
9 April 2025
However, medical experts, including Liu Xuan, Deputy Director of the Ophthalmology Department at Beijing Tsinghua Changgong Hospital, emphasize that true myopia is characterized by structural changes in the eye, such as the elongation of the eye axis, which cannot be reversed. While some cases of pseudo-myopia might see improvements with treatment, actual myopia requires a different approach, focusing on correction and prevention of further deterioration.
Liu Xuan cautions against believing methods that claim to cure myopia, stating that international medical consensus acknowledges no cure for true myopia. The methods proposed by the netizen, such as maintaining a state of being on the cusp of clear and unclear vision, might even exacerbate eye fatigue. Moreover, the lack of substantive evidence, such as visual acuity results or axial length reports, to support the claim makes it highly questionable.
The widespread dissemination of unverified and potentially harmful information on social media platforms has been highlighted as a significant concern. Algorithms that prioritize content based on popularity rather than veracity have inadvertently created an environment where pseudoscience can thrive. The absence of robust mechanisms to distinguish and flag pseudoscientific claims allows misleading information to spread, potentially harming those who attempt unproven remedies in hopes of improving their vision.
For genuine prevention and control of myopia, Liu Xuan and other medical professionals recommend a multifaceted approach, including dietary adjustments, regular outdoor activities, mindful use of digital screens, and regular check-ups with healthcare professionals to monitor vision health. These evidence-based strategies aim to slow down the progression of myopia, especially in children and adolescents, rather than promising unrealistic reversals of the condition.
In recent years, the approach to preventing myopia has undergone significant evolution, with a focus on early intervention and innovative treatments. Beyond the traditional advice of regular eye exams and corrective eyewear, new methods have emerged that show promise in reducing the incidence and progression of myopia. One such method is increased time spent outdoors, particularly in childhood, which has been correlated with a lower risk of developing myopia. Orthokeratology, or OK, involves wearing specialized contact lenses overnight to reshape the cornea, temporarily correcting vision and potentially slowing myopia progression. Atropine therapy, involving the use of low-dose atropine eye drops, has also shown effectiveness in slowing the rate of myopia progression in children. Additionally, multifocal contact lenses, designed to correct nearsightedness while also reducing the stimulus for the eye to grow longer, are being explored as a preventative measure.
Ultimately, the narrative surrounding drastic improvements in myopia serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of misinformation and the importance of consulting credible medical sources for health advice. While the allure of quick fixes may be tempting, especially in an era dominated by social media, it is crucial for the public to approach such claims with a critical eye, recognizing that genuine medical advancements and health recommendations are grounded in rigorous scientific research and clinical evidence. By understanding the underlying factors contributing to the improvement in myopia and following evidence-based guidelines, individuals can take proactive steps to maintain optimal eye health and prevent further deterioration of the condition.
