Vision Therapy in Rigden Farm

The Link Between High Myopia and Serious Eye Diseases

(970) 224-9880

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.

Patient Reviews
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408 Reviews
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- Aug. 28, 2025
Outstanding service from the front staff to the clinical team. Dr. Kelly German is exceptional—met... iculous, highly skilled, warm, and caring.
- Aug. 20, 2025
This is one of the friendliest and most competent eye doctors offices I have ever been to! Dr. Kelly... is a true gem. She was spot on with my prescription and I cannot be happier! Love this place!
- Aug. 06, 2025
Mountain View Eye Specialist was one of the most pleasant visits that I have experienced in Fort Col... lins. Everyone was so attentive and extremely kind. The whole experience was great! Thank you, Mountain View!
- Jul. 25, 2025
This is a very professional place to get your eyes checked.
- Jul. 23, 2025
Dr. Kelly and staff are great. Won't go anywhere else!
- Jul. 17, 2025
I highly recommend this place. I was traveling cross country on a motorcycle from CT and had to have... an emergency appointment. They were able to see me right away as a walk in. I was anxious about what was going on with my eye….the staff and doctor showed so much compassion and kindness. The cost of the appointment was also very reasonable as I had to self pay. I wish I had a place like this in CT.
- Jul. 11, 2025
Mountain View Eye Specialists is great! Dr. German take time with her patients and answers all your... questions. Highly recommend!
- Jul. 04, 2025
Dr. Ricke was amazing with my 9 year old son. He was personable and put him at ease quickly. Turns o... ut he has tons of experience with children. My son liked him and would see him again!
- Jun. 24, 2025
Everyone is so friendly and attentive! I had a great experience with all of the receptionists. The t... ech who did my pre exam stuff was so so sweet, I wish I got her name. I wish I got the name of the woman that helped me with glasses measurements as well — she was so kind and funny, both of these ladies deserve recognition! Dr Amy was awesome — very informed and happy to share her knowledge with me. She also found things about my eyes that had not been noticed by prior eye doctors. I believe the changes she made to my prescription are going to significantly improve side effects I’m experiencing that I didn’t even know COULD be fixed by this. I also came in with VERY busted and broken glasses, to the point of embarrassment lol, but I felt no judgement from the staff. A little thing but it made a big difference to me! Been going to this office for a couple years now, love it!
- Jun. 19, 2025
Big thank you to the entire team at Mountain View Eye Specialists! They truly go above and beyond to... look after your best interests—and what really sets them apart is how much they genuinely care about their patients. I’m so glad I chose them for my eye care. Highly recommend this place if you want to be treated like more than just a number. Thank you again! 👓👏
- Jun. 18, 2025
I have had such a wonderful experience with Mountain View! They were able to see me immediately for ... an emergency visit on Saturday. All staff have been so helpful and nice. Dr. Ricke was extremely informative and kind and he gave me peace of mind when I needed it most. They have made an otherwise very difficult eye emergency a much more pleasant experience! I will be going there for my future regular eye exams.
- Jun. 06, 2025
Everyone here is so great
- May. 28, 2025
They have an excellent Staff, and great selection of eyewear.
- May. 15, 2025
Isabel was very helpful in customizing my lens and frame choices to meet my needs.
- May. 02, 2025
I so appreciate Dr. Amy and her staff. They treat me kindly and well. They are very professional and... knowledgeable in all they do. I would highly recommend them to anyone who needs an excellent optometrist on their health team.
- Apr. 10, 2025
We love this doctor and the staff. Everyone is so friendly and helpful and made my daughter feel ver... y comfortable.
- Apr. 08, 2025
Great Service. Very professional.
- Apr. 07, 2025
I love these guys! Dr. German is the BEST, helped find an eye problem that was difficult for others... to find. Also have top notch equip and a great optician staff.
- Mar. 28, 2025
Greeted and accepted as a new client in a timely manner. New prescription and glasses provided.
- Mar. 25, 2025
Friendly, knowledgeable and professional staff located in a convenient and pleasant office.

View All 408 Reviews

Myopia Management in Rigden Farm

Our optometry practice in Rigden Farm

Photograph of Amy  Abel
Hours
  • Monday 8:30 am - 5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8:30 am - 5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am - 5:30 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am - 5:30 pm
  • Friday 7:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Saturday 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • EyeMed
  • Spectera
  • VSP
  • United Healthcare
  • Cigna
  • Tricare
  • Anthem
  • UMR
  • AARP Medicare Complete
  • Aetna
  • Mutual of Omaha

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Mountain View Eye Specialists: 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 Mountain View Eye Specialists to schedule an eye exam, and let us guide you through high myopia and its potential impact on your eye health.

(970) 224-9880