Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is becoming more prevalent, especially among children worldwide. This condition makes it difficult to see distant objects clearly, while close-up vision remains unaffected.
The increasing reliance on digital screens and the changing lifestyles have significantly contributed to this surge. Early intervention and management are crucial to prevent myopia progression. This helps reduce the risk of more severe eye problems in the future.
San Ramon Family Optometry offers customized myopia treatment plans to manage myopia in children and young adults. Our expert team aims to help you and your family maintain optimal vision health. Let's explore some of the critical aspects of myopia, including its causes and symptoms. We also offer cutting-edge treatments for myopia control.
What is Myopia, And What Are The Risk Factors?
Myopia occurs when the eyeball is too long, or the cornea is too curved. This causes light rays to focus in front of the retina instead of on it. This results in blurry distance vision. Factors contributing to the rise of myopia include:
- Genetic predisposition: Children with myopic parents are more likely to develop myopia
- Increased screen time: Prolonged use of digital devices reduces outdoor activities, increasing the risk of myopia
- Lack of natural light exposure: Spending less time outdoors limits exposure to natural light, which is crucial for healthy eye development
The growing prevalence of myopia highlights the need for effective management strategies. These strategies can help control its progression and prevent future complications.
The Importance of Early Intervention & Treatment
Early intervention in myopia management is essential to slow its progression. Getting treatment for myopia early can reduce the risk of developing eye issues later on. Managing nearsightedness well can improve kids' and adults' quality of life and vision health. Treatment options at San Ramon Family Optometry include:
Atropine Eye Drops
Atropine eye drops slow the progression of myopia. These drops dilate the pupil and relax the eye's focus. Studies have shown that at low concentrations, atropine effectively reduces the rate of myopia progression with minimal side effects.
During your consultation at San Ramon Family Optometry, our eye doctors will discuss how to incorporate atropine drops into your child's eye care routine. This will help achieve optimal results.
MiSight Contact Lenses
MiSight contact lenses are contact lenses that manage myopia in children. These daily disposable lenses use concentric rings to reduce stimuli that cause eye elongation. Clinical trials have shown a 59% reduction in myopia progression. They also demonstrated a 52% decrease in eye elongation compared to traditional contact lenses.
MiSight lenses not only correct existing myopia but also help manage its progression. They are easy to use and provide clear vision while actively working to slow down the advancement of myopia.
The benefits extend to a healthier lens-wearing experience, free from deposits and allergens. Another benefit is improving their vision and overall quality of life, especially for children with active lifestyles.
Eyezen Lenses
Eyezen lenses provide comfort and support, especially for those who spend a lot of time on digital devices. These lenses correct myopia while also addressing the need for comfortable near vision. They help reduce eye strain and improve visual comfort for daily digital activities.
Eyezen lenses filter out harmful blue light emitted by screens. This can help reduce digital eye strain and prevent disruption of sleep patterns. Children and adults alike can enjoy better visual comfort and protection from the effects of prolonged screen use.
The Long-Term Benefits of Managing Myopia
Managing myopia early can significantly reduce the risk of developing more severe eye problems later in life. By controlling the progression of myopia, we can lower the chances of complications. These complications include retinal detachment, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.
Here are some long-term benefits of early myopia management:
- Improved vision: Effective management strategies can maintain clearer vision and reduce the need for stronger prescription glasses or contact lenses
- Reduced risk of eye diseases: Early intervention can lower the risk of serious eye conditions associated with high myopia
- Enhanced quality of life: Individuals can enjoy better visual comfort and fewer limitations in their daily activities by slowing myopia progression
Effective Myopia Management at San Ramon Family Optometry
Say goodbye to the discomfort and risks associated with myopia progression. Our optometrists, advanced therapies, and personalized treatment plans ensure you receive the best care for managing myopia. Don't let myopia progression affect your child’s vision. Schedule an appointment to diagnose myopia and start a treatment plan to preserve their vision.