Myopia Management: What You Need to Know

Are you or your child experiencing blurry vision or having trouble seeing things that are far away? If so, you may be nearsighted. Millions of individuals around the world have this refractive error. It would help to explore myopia management and what you need to know about this condition.

What Is Myopia?

Myopia is a refractive defect that develops when the cornea excessively curves or the eye becomes too long. Either causes light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it. As a result, eyesight blurs when looking at distant objects. Myopia typically develops during childhood and adolescence, but it can continue to worsen until the late teenage years or early adulthood.

What Causes Myopia?

Although the precise etiology of myopia is uncertain, genetics and environmental factors may play a role. Nearsightedness is more likely in kids with myopic parents, whether one or both. Myopia may develop and worsen due to spending more time indoors and engaging in close-up occupational tasks. These include activities like reading and using electronic devices.

Myopia Management

Fortunately, several options are available for managing myopia and slowing its progression.

Eyeglasses and Contact Lenses

Eyeglasses and contact lenses are the most popular and efficient methods for myopia correction. They work by bending light rays to focus directly on the retina. This provides clear vision for both near and far objects. While they do not slow myopia progression, they can help improve vision and reduce symptoms.

Orthokeratology

Orthokeratology, or ortho-k, is a nonsurgical treatment involving the use of specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses. The lenses temporarily reshape the cornea overnight. This allows light to focus directly on the retina, reducing myopia. Ortho-k lenses are only effective when you wear them, and the effects can last up to a few days.

Atropine Eye Drops

Prescription atropine eye drops can slow myopia advancement. They dilate the pupils and temporarily paralyze the eye's focusing mechanism. The usual dosage of atropine eye drops is one dose per day in low concentration.

Multifocal Contact Lenses

Multifocal lenses are a relatively new option for myopia management. They provide different power zones for various distances, similar to progressive eyeglasses. The lenses help reduce myopia progression by slightly decreasing the focusing demands of the eye.

Lifestyle Changes

Reducing the time spent on close-up work and increasing time spent outdoors can also help slow the progression of myopia. Spending time outside may protect against myopia. This is likely due to increased exposure to natural light and less time spent on close-up work.

Conclusion

Myopia is a widespread condition that many people experience. Nevertheless, you can control or slow its progression with the right care. But whichever method you choose to manage your condition, it is essential to consult with an eye care professional. 

Your eye doctor will help you determine the best treatment for you or your little one. Regular eye exams can also help monitor the progression of myopia and ensure the treatment plan is effective.

For more on myopia management, visit Trinity Eye Associates at our Oviedo, Florida office. Call (407) 678-9151 to schedule an appointment today.