What does the term "myopia" refer to?

The term "myopia" specifically refers to nearsightedness, a common vision condition where distant objects appear blurry while close objects can be seen clearly. This happens because the eye is either too long or the cornea has too much curvature, causing light rays to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it.

Understanding myopia is essential for determining the appropriate corrective measures, such as lenses or refractive surgery, which help to align the focus on the retina, allowing for clearer vision at various distances. This distinction is crucial in ophthalmic practice, as it helps eye care professionals identify and treat refractive errors efficiently.