Myopia, or nearsightedness, is the term for having good near vision but poor distance vision. This is not an eye disease and relates mostly to the shape of your eye. A myopic eye is not perfectly round, but instead has a longer shape, causing the light entering your eye to land in front of the retina, the light-sensitive tissue on the back of your eye. Some people turn to herbs such as chicory root, but supplements will not resolve myopia. Talk to your doctor before using chicory to treat any medical condition.
Causes
The shape of your eye is permanent, but temporary or periodic myopia may stem from other causes. People who spend a great deal of time reading or using their near vision in other capacities may experience a temporary blurring of distance vision. This may result from the eye being unable to refocus after spending so much time focused on a close-up object. Some people may experience myopia at night or in other low-lighting conditions. You may also experience myopic conditions due to health conditions such as blood sugar levels or eye conditions such as cataract formation.
Chicory Root
Chicory is a perennial commonly found in weedy areas, such as fields, across the United States. This plant has similarities to the dandelion, but, instead of yellow, the flower is typically purple or blue. The chicory root has a brown appearance, and some people use this part of the plant for treating certain health conditions. You can find chicory in liquid extract and pill form, as well as whole root or ground chicory.
The components of chicory could have some benefits in helping constipation and diarrhea, as well as cardiovascular conditions. Chicory root contains a number of nutrients that may help protect your eyes from eye diseases and other conditions. Some people believe chicory could help myopia, according to the Herbalist.com website, but chicory will not alter the shape of your eye to correct myopic vision. If you have an eye condition that causes temporary myopia and you believe chicory could possibly help improve your eyesight, talk with your doctor. She can help you determine if chicory is the appropriate treatment.
Correction
You can correct myopia that results from the shape of your eye with prescription glasses or contact lenses. Your doctor will perform an eye examination to determine the amount of correction you require to bring distance objects into focus. Other options may include vision correction surgery, a procedure that alters the cornea, the front dome of your eye. Changing the shape of this structure will affect where the light lands on the back of your eye. During your eye examination, you may choose to talk with your doctor about the options appropriate for you.
Considerations
You should avoid beginning any herb or other supplement without first talking with your doctor. He will evaluate your symptoms and overall condition to determine if chicory or other supplements offer the best and most appropriate treatment options. Some herbs and nutrients could interact with your routine medications, and your doctor can help identify potential conflicts that would prevent you from beginning an herbal treatment.
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