Myopia is a common vision condition that can affect both adults and children. This condition is caused by having an irregular eye shape or irregularly curved cornea. If you or your child has this condition, it may help to know that you have other options than eyeglasses.
Keep reading to discover different methods used to slow the progression of myopia in young patients.
Eyeglasses
Various types of eyeglass lenses can help slow the progression of myopia. Single vision glasses can correct vision but only mildly help slow myopia progression. Multifocal or progressive glasses can correct distance vision and decently slow myopia progression. Recently introduced on the market, miyosmart lenses can dramatically slow the progression of myopia.
Peripheral Contact Lenses
Another treatment your eye doctor may recommend for your child is peripheral contact lenses. Children ages six to 12 may wear these contacts. They are also called multifocal contact lenses because they have several areas of focus. Peripheral contact lenses work by blurring the side vision, which experts believe will slow eye growth and myopia progression. However, they may not work in certain situations. If you decide to allow your child to wear them, make sure they can use, clean and store them properly to minimize the risk of infection.
Orthokeratology
With orthokeratology, patients wear specialized contact lenses overnight and experience temporary clear vision during the day. These lenses work by flattening the cornea as you sleep. The following day, the light that passes through the reshaped cornea hits the cornea accurately, allowing the wearer to see distant objects clearly.
Low-Dose Atropine Eye Drops
Atropine eye drops widen the pupil during eye exams. They are given to children between five to 18 years old and applied to each eye during bedtime. Giving them to children in small doses for two to three years will help slow myopia progression.
At Opti-Care, we’re here to assist with your family’s eye care needs. Aside from myopia correction, we also offer dry eye treatments. Call us at (410) 795-8670 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We help patients in Westminster, MD, and nearby communities.