Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is a vision condition in which distant objects appear blurry while close objects can be seen clearly. Myopia primarily affects the focusing of light in front of the retina, causing it to fall short of reaching the retina properly. This can lead to several effects on the retina and eye health:

1. Axial Lengthening: In myopia, the eyeball tends to elongate, which results in an increase in the axial length of the eye. This elongation is the main factor in the development and progression of myopia. As the eyeball lengthens, the distance between the lens and the retina increases.
2. Retinal Stretching: The elongation of the eye can lead to stretching of the retina, particularly in the peripheral regions. This stretching can potentially cause thinning of the retinal tissue and structural changes.
3. Increased Risk of Retinal Detachment: Myopia is associated with an increased risk of retinal detachment. The stretching of the retina can make it more susceptible to tears or holes, which can allow the vitreous gel to enter the space between the retina and the back of the eye, leading to detachment.
4. Increased Risk of Myopic Macular Degeneration: High myopia, in particular, is associated with an increased risk of myopic macular degeneration. This condition can lead to degenerative changes in the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for detailed vision.
5. Reduced Retinal Blood Flow: Some studies suggest that myopia may be associated with reduced blood flow to the retina, which can have implications for overall retinal health.
6. Increased Risk of Glaucoma: High myopia is also linked to an increased risk of developing glaucoma, a condition characterized by increased intraocular pressure and damage to the optic nerve.

It’s important for individuals with myopia, particularly those with moderate to high myopia, to have regular eye exams and consult with eye care professionals. Early detection and appropriate management can help reduce the risk of complications and preserve eye health. This may include wearing corrective lenses (glasses or contact lenses), orthokeratology, or discussing surgical options with an ophthalmologist.