Myopia in childhood, or nearsightedness, is becoming increasingly common, with rates rising dramatically in recent years. Fortunately, early intervention and specialized treatments at Advanced Eye Surgeons can help slow its progression.
What is Myopia
Myopia is a refractive error in which blurred vision affects the clarity of far-away objects. This condition arises when the eye elongates excessively or the cornea curves too steeply, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. At the beginning of childhood myopia, children may experience blurry vision, but if left untreated, myopic macular degeneration can lead to more severe vision problems in adulthood.
The Myopia Pandemic in Children
Myopia progression rates have escalated globally over recent decades. Projections indicate that nearly half of the world’s population may be affected by high myopia by 2050. This surge is particularly concerning in pediatric populations, as early onset often leads to higher degrees of myopia in adulthood, increasing the risk of severe ocular complications.
What Causes Myopia in Children
Several factors contribute to children developing myopia. A family history of myopia dramatically increases the risk of a child’s eye health, as do environmental influences, such as reading, a lack of outdoor time, or digital devices.
How Can Myopia Be Treated
Myopia Control Contact Lenses
Specialized glasses or contact lenses have been developed to correct vision and help halt or slow the progression of myopia. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses are worn overnight and removed daily, so there’s minimal risk of irritation or complications. Regular check-ups are necessary to monitor the fit of the lenses and ensure eye health.
However, MiSight 1 Day Contact Lenses are specifically designed for children and are both safe and effective. Daily wear reduces the risks associated with long-term contact lens wear, such as dry eyes or infections, as the lenses are discarded after each use. MiSight lenses are FDA-approved for children aged 8-12 and have been shown to reduce myopia progression with minimal risk of side effects.
Atropine Eye Drops (Low-Dose)
Low-dose atropine eye drops, typically at a concentration of 0.01%, have emerged as an effective treatment for slowing myopia progression, particularly in children. Atropine affects the eye’s focusing mechanism, which helps reduce eye elongation and slow myopia progression.
Multifocal and Bifocal Glasses
Multifocal and bifocal glasses are another option for slowing the progression of myopia. The lenses are not only designed for vision correction but also to manage eye growth. For children with sensitive eyes, glasses provide an effective, non-invasive way to help control myopia.
Preventing Myopia in Children
Preventative strategies are crucial in addressing the rising incidence of myopia:
- Increase Outdoor Activities: Natural light exposure plays a significant role in eye development.
- Manage Screen Time: Limiting the duration of screen use can alleviate eye strain and may reduce myopia risk.
- Regular Eye Examinations: Early detection through routine eye check-ups is essential for timely intervention and management.
What to Expect with Myopia Treatment
Parents considering myopia control treatments for their children can anticipate a comprehensive approach that includes customized treatment plans, consistent monitoring, and lifestyle recommendations. The Advanced Eye Surgeons eye care professionals will assess individual risk factors and recommend interventions tailored to the child’s needs. We emphasize the importance of early detection and proactive intervention to preserve your child’s vision and quality of life.
Schedule a Consultation
If you have concerns about your child’s vision or wish to learn more about myopia prevention and treatment options, contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Gupta and Dr. Pereira at Advanced Eye Surgeons. We’re here to help you develop a comprehensive approach to safeguard your child’s vision, health, and development.
