Myopia, or nearsightedness, has become increasingly common among children worldwide. While this refractive error can be easily corrected with glasses, it cannot be reversed. Myopia control (also called myopia management) is used to support long-term eye health. Myopia control focuses on slowing myopia progression to reduce the likelihood of developing high myopia or other eye health risks later in life.
An optometrist can diagnose myopia through a comprehensive eye exam (for either adults or children) and can help create a treatment plan to help safeguard your family’s vision.
What Is Myopia?
Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a common eye condition in which distant objects appear blurry while nearby objects remain clear. In most cases, myopia is caused by the shape of the eye elongating, which causes light to focus in front of the retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye) instead of directly on it.
Causes of Myopia
While genetics play a role in the development of myopia (children with one or both nearsighted parents are at higher risk), environmental factors also contribute to an increased risk of myopia development. Prolonged near-work activities (such as screen time) and lack of outdoor exposure are associated with increased myopia rates.
Symptoms of Myopia
Here are some common signs that your child may be nearsighted:
- Squinting to see distant objects
- Complaints of blurry vision when looking at the board in school or watching TV
- Frequent headaches caused by eye strain
- Sitting too close to screens or holding books very close while reading
Why Does Myopia Need to Be Controlled?
You might wonder, “If myopia can be corrected with glasses or contact lenses, why is control necessary?” The answer lies in the progression of myopia. Myopia often worsens as children grow, especially during school years, and can increase the risk of severe eye conditions later in life, such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration.
It’s important to note that myopia cannot be reversed with current treatments, but its progression can be slowed or controlled to minimize long-term risks. This is where myopia control steps in.
What Is Myopia Control?
Myopia control refers to various treatments and strategies designed to slow the progression of nearsightedness in children. Unlike traditional glasses or contact lenses that correct blurry vision, myopia control treatments aim to reduce the rate at which myopia worsens over time, while also correcting blurry vision.
Understanding the Options for Myopia Control
If you are considering myopia control for your child, you will be glad to know there are several options available.
Atropine Eye Drops
Usually the first recommended treatment, low-dose atropine eye drops are a prescription treatment that has shown promising results in slowing myopia progression. These drops are typically applied nightly and are well-tolerated by most children.
Eyeglasses
Specially designed eyeglasses correct vision and help slow the progression of myopia work by distributing light differently across the retina, reducing the stimulus for further eye elongation.
Soft Contact Lenses
Soft, dual-focus contact lenses are another effective option. Like spectacles, these lenses correct vision while managing peripheral light focus to slow eye growth. They are an excellent choice for older kids comfortable wearing contact lenses.
Ortho-K Contact Lenses
Orthokeratology, or Ortho-K, involves wearing specially designed rigid gas-permeable contact lenses overnight. These lenses temporarily reshape the cornea, allowing your child to enjoy clear vision during the day without glasses or contacts while slowing myopia progression.
What Are the Benefits of Myopia Control?
Taking steps to control myopia offers both short-term and long-term benefits for your child:
Short-Term Benefits
- Stabilizes vision to reduce frequent prescription changes
- Improves your child’s ability to engage in activities like sports and learning
Long-Term Benefits
- Reduces the risk of developing serious eye diseases in adulthood
- Improves overall quality of life by preserving better visual health
Investing in myopia control ensures that your child sees the world clearly now and protects their vision for the future.
Who Is Suitable for Myopia Control Treatment?
Most children diagnosed with myopia are suitable candidates for myopia control treatments. A consultation with an optometrist is necessary to determine the best action. Key factors to consider include:
- The child’s age (myopia control works best when started early)
- Existing prescription levels and how quickly they change
- How comfortable the child is with glasses, contacts, or eye drops
Which Myopia Control Option Is Best for My Child?
Each child is unique, and the best treatment depends on their needs, lifestyle, and preferences. For example, glasses may be ideal for children uncomfortable with contact lenses and eye drops. In contrast, contact lenses or Ortho-K lenses might be perfect for sporty kids who want glasses-free days.
Consult your eye care professional to make an informed decision.
What Else Is Important in Myopia Management?
Myopia control isn’t just about treatment—it’s also about adopting healthier habits to reduce strain and protect your child’s vision. Here’s some additional guidance:
- Encourage breaks during screen time: Follow the “20-20-20” rule—encourage your child to look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes.
- Limit prolonged near work: Hold near tasks farther away from the eyes and spend less time on screens.
- Outdoor time: Encourage time outdoors to reduce the risk of worsening myopia.
- Regular eye exams: Keep up with annual or biannual visits to your optometrist to monitor your child’s eye health and adjust treatment as needed.
Safeguard Your Child’s Vision Today
Myopia control is a proactive and essential step toward preserving your child’s eye health and quality of life. Lake Country Optometry advocates helping children adopt healthy habits that allow them to see the world clearly and reduce the risks of high myopia later in life. Contact us today to learn more about myopia control and treatment options.
