Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is a refractive error where distant objects appear blurry, while close-up objects remain clear. It occurs when the eye's shape causes light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it.

Myopia is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam by an optometrist or ophthalmologist.

The process includes visual acuity and refraction tests to determine the prescription for clear vision. Additional assessments of the eye's focusing ability and overall health may also be conducted.

These tests provide the necessary information for a myopia diagnosis and help determine the appropriate management approach.

Myopia often starts during childhood and progresses until the late teenage years. It usually begins around 6 to 12 years of age, but it can develop earlier or later.

Several risk factors contribute to the development of myopia in children.

Genetics play a significant role, as having one or both parents with myopia increases the likelihood of a child developing it.

Environmental factors also play a role, such as excessive near work activities like reading or extended screen time, which can strain the eyes.

Insufficient outdoor time is another risk factor, as natural light and time spent outdoors have been associated with a reduced risk of myopia.

Additionally, certain ethnic groups, such as East Asians, have a higher prevalence of myopia.

Excessive digital device use and prolonged near work have been associated with an increased risk of myopia development and progression in children.

When engaged in close-up activities like reading or using electronic devices, the eyes are subjected to extended periods of focusing at a near distance. Additionally, the reduced time spent outdoors during near work activities further contributes to the risk of myopia.

Encouraging regular breaks from near work and balancing screen time with outdoor activities can help mitigate the impact of digital device and near use on myopia in children.

While myopia cannot be entirely prevented, certain interventions such as changing the environmental risk factors such as spending more time outdoors and reducing near-work activities may help slow down its progression.

Myopia management involves various strategies and treatments aimed at slowing down the progression of myopia in children. These may include specialty contact lenses such as MiSight or Ortho-k or use of pharmaceutical eye drops such as low-dose atropine.

Studies have shown that myopia management interventions can significantly slow down the progression of myopia, potentially reducing the risk of high myopia and associated eye complications in the long term.

The types of myopia management options available in the United States include optical methods with contact lenses such as MiSight and ortho-k. Anti-myopia spectacles are available in Europe, Canada, and Asia but not yet in the U.S. Atropine is a pharmaceutical eye drops compounded at a low concentration. However, atropine does not correct vision and spectacles or contact lenses are still needed.

Each option works in a unique way to control myopia progression.

Generally, myopia management treatments are safe and well-tolerated.

While there are always risk with contact lens wear, research shows that the benefits of myopia management outweigh the ocular pathology risks associated with myopia.

When used responsibly and under the guidance of an eye care practitioner, contact lenses are a safe and viable option for children.

It is crucial to follow proper hygiene practices, including hand washing before handling lenses and cleaning them regularly. It is essential for parents to ensure proper lens care and maintenance, regular follow-ups with the eye care professional, and adherence to the prescribed wearing schedule.

By following these guidelines, myopia management with contact lenses can provide a safe and effective vision correction option for children.

Myopia management is most effective when started early, ideally when the child's myopia is progressing.

The optimal age for starting myopia management may vary depending on individual factors. Contact us for a consultation for your child’s myopia.

While myopia management can help slow down the progression of myopia, it does not guarantee complete elimination of progression. The primary goal is to reduce the rate of progression and potential complications associated with high myopia.