Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a growing concern and affects millions of children worldwide.
This eye condition is caused by a curved lens or an elongated eyeball, causing light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it. Kids with myopia have clear close-up vision, but distant objects appear blurry.
At True Vision in Lancaster, we specialize in myopia management techniques designed to slow down the progression of this condition and protect your child's long-term vision.
Why Myopia is on the Rise
The surge in childhood myopia can be attributed to modern lifestyle factors. Children in today's modern age spend a lot more time indoors, focused on screens and reading, which increases eye strain.
This constant near work, combined with a lack of outdoor play, is believed to contribute to the increase of myopia.
Long-Term Risks of Progressive Myopia
Unchecked myopia can lead to serious eye health complications later in life. People with high myopia are at greater risk for developing:
- Retinal detachment: A serious eye condition where the retina pulls away from its normal position.
- Glaucoma: Increased eye pressure that can lead to vision loss.
- Cataracts: Clouding of the eye's natural lens.
- Myopic macular degeneration: A deterioration of the central part of the retina, leading to vision loss.
Slowing the progression of myopia through myopia control methods is important for reducing the likelihood of these complications. The earlier the intervention, the better the outcome.
Myopia Management Options: What Are Your Choices?
There are several effective non-surgical myopia treatments options available today. These treatments focus on vision correction while controlling the progression of myopia and maintaining optimal eye health. Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular options:
1. Orthokeratology (Ortho K)
Orthokeratology, or Ortho K, is a leading option in myopia management. It involves wearing specially designed contact lenses overnight to temporarily reshape the cornea. Upon waking, your child will experience clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or contact lenses. This makes Ortho K a powerful tool in managing childhood myopia.
The lenses are safe, non-invasive, and ideal for active children who may struggle with traditional eyewear during sports and other activities.
2. Multifocal Contact Lenses
For children who may not be candidates for Ortho K, multifocal contact lenses offer another solution. These myopia contact lenses have different zones for near, intermediate, and distant vision. Their innovative design reduces eye strain caused by focusing on close-up objects, a major contributor to myopia progression.
Multifocal lenses also slow down the elongation of the eyeball, making them an effective part of a comprehensive myopia management plan.
3. Atropine Eye Drops
Atropine eye drops are another method used to control myopia in children. Low-dose atropine drops reduce the rate of myopia progression by relaxing the eye's focusing mechanism.
This treatment is often used alongside glasses or contact lenses to provide a multi-faceted approach to managing myopia.
4. Lifestyle Modifications
Simple changes in daily habits can have a significant impact on myopia control.
Encouraging children to spend more time outdoors has been shown to reduce the progression of myopia. Additionally, limiting screen time and promoting regular breaks during close-up work can also alleviate eye strain.
Take Control of Your Child’s Vision Today in Lancaster
Be proactive and schedule a consultation with True Vision's myopia specialist to learn more about personalized treatment options and how they can preserve your child’s vision.