Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is one of the most common vision problems affecting millions of people worldwide. This condition causes blurry vision for distant objects while nearby objects remain clear. But beyond just blurry vision, myopia can have long-term effects on eye health, especially if left untreated. Myopia is becoming increasingly prevalent, with an estimated 30% of the global population affected today, and the number is projected to rise to 50% by 2050.
If you or your child suffers from myopia, it’s important to understand both the implications and the available treatment options. The good news is that there are effective ways to manage myopia and even slow its progression, especially in children. Contact lenses designed for myopia control can help, along with other treatments tailored to meet the specific needs of each patient.
What Is Myopia?
Myopia is a refractive error where the eye’s shape causes light rays to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it. This results in blurred vision for objects that are far away. While myopia is typically diagnosed during childhood, it can progress over time, especially as the eye continues to grow. This progression can increase the risk of serious eye conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and retinal detachment later in life.
How Can Myopia Be Managed?
While myopia cannot be “cured,” its progression can be slowed with the right treatment. For children, early intervention is key to preventing more severe vision problems in the future. Below are some of the most effective myopia management options:
1. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)
Ortho-K lenses are a revolutionary treatment for myopia control. These special contact lenses are worn overnight and gently reshape the cornea while the patient sleeps. The result is improved vision upon waking up, without the need for glasses or contacts throughout the day.
Ortho-K is particularly effective in children as it slows down the progression of myopia. The effects of the lenses are temporary, so they must be worn consistently every night to maintain the results. This non-invasive treatment option allows children to experience clear vision during the day while controlling the rate of myopia progression.
2. Bifocal and Multifocal Contact Lenses
Bifocal and multifocal contact lenses are traditionally used to treat presbyopia, a condition where people have difficulty focusing on close objects due to age-related changes in the eyes. However, recent studies have shown that these lenses can also help slow down the progression of myopia in children.
These lenses have a unique design where the center of the lens corrects for distance vision, and the outer portion helps with near vision. This design helps to reduce the strain on the eyes, which is believed to be a factor in myopia progression. When used appropriately, multifocal lenses can be a great option for children to not only correct their vision but also manage myopia.
3. Soft Contact Lenses for Myopia Control
Soft contact lenses are another option for myopia treatment, with certain brands specifically designed to slow the progression of myopia. These lenses are comfortable and easy to wear, making them a great choice for both children and adults. They work by altering the way light enters the eye, providing clearer vision and helping to control the elongation of the eyeball, which contributes to the worsening of myopia.
Why Is Myopia Control Important for Children?
Myopia often starts in childhood and can worsen with age, leading to a higher risk of developing serious eye diseases later in life. By intervening early, parents can help slow the progression of myopia and reduce the risk of future complications. Myopia management not only improves vision but also protects the overall health of the eyes in the long term.
How to Know If Myopia Treatment Is Right for Your Child
If your child is showing signs of myopia, such as difficulty seeing distant objects clearly or squinting while watching TV, it’s important to schedule an eye exam. An eye exam for contact lenses will help determine the best treatment option for your child, whether it’s Ortho-K lenses, multifocal contact lenses, or another form of myopia management.
Regular Eye Exams for Myopia Management
Routine eye exams are essential for tracking the progression of myopia and ensuring your child receives the best care. Regular eye exams allow your eye doctor to monitor any changes in your child’s vision and adjust treatment accordingly. For children with myopia, eye exams are especially important to catch early signs of progression and manage the condition effectively.
Conclusion
Myopia is a common condition, but it doesn’t have to be a lifelong burden. With the right treatments and early intervention, especially myopia control options like Ortho-K and multifocal contact lenses, it’s possible to slow the progression of myopia and maintain healthy vision for years to come. If you’re concerned about your child’s myopia or want to explore contact lenses for myopia control, schedule an eye exam with one of our experts.
At Eyeson Group, we are committed to providing personalized myopia management solutions for children and adults alike. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help protect and manage your vision.