How Do You Treat Myopia in Children?

The prevalence of myopia is on the rise globally. It's estimated that by 2050, nearly half of the world's population will be myopic. This rising trend is alarming, especially given the potential long-term effects of myopia on children's eye health. Therefore, understanding myopia in children and how to manage it effectively is critical for parents, educators, and healthcare professionals alike.

The Role of Myopia Management in Children's Vision

Myopia management plays a crucial role in preserving children's vision. It's not just about correcting blurry vision; it's also about slowing down the progression of myopia. This is important because high myopia—myopia that continues to worsen over time—can increase the risk of serious eye problems later in life.

Myopia management strategies can include lifestyle changes like spending more time outdoors and taking regular breaks from work. Studies have shown that spending time outside can slow down the progression of myopia, although the exact reasons for this are still being researched. Regular breaks from near work, like reading and using digital devices, can also help reduce eye strain and slow down myopia progression.

Another key part of myopia management is regular eye check-ups. These check-ups allow eye care professionals to monitor your child's vision and adjust their treatment as needed. Regular eye check-ups can also help detect any potential eye problems at an early stage, allowing for timely treatment.

 

Symptoms of Myopia in Children

Recognizing the signs of myopia early on can help ensure timely treatment and management of this vision problem. One of the most common symptoms of myopia in children is difficulty seeing distant objects clearly. For example, a child may struggle to read the board at school, recognize people from a distance, or see objects while playing outdoor games.

Another common sign of myopia is squinting. Children with myopia often squint their eyes to see distant objects more clearly. This is because squinting slightly changes the shape of the eye and lens, helping to bring distant objects into sharper focus. Frequent headaches and eye strain can also indicate myopia, as children with this condition often overwork their eyes in an attempt to see clearly.

 

Management Methods for Children with Myopia

There are several treatment methods available for children with myopia. The most common treatment is prescription glasses or contact lenses. These devices work by refocusing light onto the retina, helping to clear up distant vision. Glasses and contact lenses are a simple, safe, and effective way to correct myopia, and they can be easily adjusted as your child's vision changes.

Another treatment option is orthokeratology, or "ortho-k." This involves wearing specially designed, rigid gas-permeable contact lenses overnight. These lenses temporarily reshape the cornea—the clear front part of the eye—helping to correct myopia. Ortho-k lenses can be an effective treatment for mild to moderate myopia, but they require regular follow-ups with an eye care professional.

More recently, low-dose atropine eye drops have emerged as a promising treatment for slowing down the progression of myopia in children. Atropine drops are typically used once a day, and they work by temporarily relaxing the eyes' focusing mechanism. However, these drops should be used under the supervision of an eye care professional, as they can have side effects.

 

Ensure a Bright, Clear Future for Your Child

Myopia is a common vision problem in children that can significantly impact their development and quality of life. It's crucial to recognize the symptoms of myopia early on and seek professional help. There are several effective treatment methods for children with myopia, and myopia management plays a key role in preserving children's vision and eye health.

To learn more about treatment options for myopia in children, visit Parkside Eye Care in our Cary, North Carolina, office. Call (919) 883-9987 to schedule an appointment today.