If you’ve noticed that your child’s vision keeps getting worse, you’re not alone. In Randolph, many parents are concerned about progressive nearsightedness, also known as myopia, which occurs when the eyeball grows longer than normal, causing distant objects to appear blurry. Progressive myopia is increasingly common in children and can continue worsening through adolescence, impacting their vision and overall eye health.
What Is Progressive Myopia?
Myopia is a refractive error that happens when light entering the eye focuses in front of the retina rather than directly on it. Children with progressive myopia experience consistent changes in their prescription over time, which can be frustrating for both the child and parents. Beyond the inconvenience of frequently changing eyeglasses, progressive myopia increases the risk of long-term eye diseases, including retinal detachment, early-onset cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration later in life.
Why Does My Child’s Vision Keep Getting Worse?
While the exact cause of progressive myopia isn’t fully understood, research suggests that both genetic and environmental factors play a role:
- Family history: Children with parents who are nearsighted are at a higher risk of developing myopia.
- Environmental factors: Spending extended time indoors, particularly with near work like reading or screen use, has been linked to faster myopia progression. Conversely, outdoor activities and exposure to natural light appear protective.
- Near-point stress: Focusing on objects close-up for long periods, including tablets, smartphones, and books, can trigger the eyeball to elongate, worsening myopia. Following the 20-20-20 rule—looking 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes—can help alleviate eye strain.
How Can Progressive Myopia Be Controlled?
Several treatments have been shown to slow the progression of myopia in children, and an experienced eye doctor can determine which is best for your child:
1. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K):
These are rigid gas-permeable contact lenses worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea. During the day, children often enjoy glasses-free vision. Ortho-K has been shown to slow myopia progression while providing clear vision throughout the day.
2. Distance Center Multifocal Contact Lenses:
Soft multifocal contact lenses with distance correction in the center and near correction in the periphery can reduce the progression of myopia while offering normal daytime vision.
3. Atropine Eye Drops:
Low-dose atropine drops are prescribed daily and have been shown to slow the elongation of the eyeball. They are often combined with other treatments like Ortho-K or multifocal lenses for maximum effect.
4. Additional Myopia Management Options:
Some countries offer specialized eyewear and lenses, such as Zeiss™ MyoVision glasses with innovative lens curvature or Coopervision MiSight® daily multifocal contact lenses, designed specifically for children.
Tips for Supporting Your Child’s Eye Health
- Encourage outdoor play to reduce the risk of myopia progression.
- Limit extended near work and screen time, incorporating regular breaks.
- Ensure children maintain a healthy lifestyle with proper nutrition, which can indirectly support overall eye health.
- Schedule regular eye exams to monitor changes and adjust treatments as necessary.
When to See an Eye Doctor
If your child’s vision keeps getting worse despite current corrective lenses, it’s important to seek professional guidance. Early intervention can prevent complications later in life. A pediatric eye doctor can evaluate your child’s condition, recommend the best course of treatment, and provide guidance on contact lenses, eyeglasses, or other interventions to slow progression.
Final Thoughts
Progressive myopia is more than a minor inconvenience—it can have serious implications for your child’s future vision. Taking early action with myopia management strategies and consulting an experienced eye doctor is essential. Residents in Worcester, Randolph, Lincoln, and Cranston can access comprehensive eye exams and specialized treatments to ensure healthy vision and protect against long-term eye diseases like cataracts and glaucoma.
Protect your child’s vision today by scheduling an eye exam with a qualified optometrist who can provide personalized myopia care.