Myopia, or nearsightedness, is 1 of the most common refractive errors affecting people worldwide. Myopia causes distant objects to appear blurred while close objects remain clear, and it typically begins in childhood.
If you’re wondering whether myopia can be reversed, the short answer is no. However, advancements in eye care technology have made it possible for optometrists to slow its progression and better manage its impact on long-term vision health.
What Is Myopia?
Myopia occurs when the eye is either elongated or the cornea curves too steeply. This structural irregularity causes light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it, resulting in blurry distance vision.
Causes of Myopia
Both genetics and lifestyle factors influence the development and progression of myopia. Children with 2 myopic parents are at a higher risk of developing myopia.
However, modern environmental factors, such as prolonged screen use and limited outdoor activities, have been shown to exacerbate its development. Spending ample time outdoors and reducing near-work activities can help protect against rapid myopia progression in children.
When Does Myopia Begin?
Myopia often starts between the ages of 6 and 12, when children’s eyes are still developing. It can worsen as they grow, making early detection crucial. Regular eye exams are the best way to identify myopia early and implement interventions to manage its progression effectively.
Examining & Measuring Myopia
Myopia is typically assessed in diopters (units that indicate lens power). The higher the negative value, the more severe the myopia. Someone with mild myopia might only need corrective lenses for activities like driving or reading a whiteboard, while a person with moderate to high myopia needs constant corrective eyewear.
Axial Length Measurement with Lenstar Myopia
At Arc Eye Care, we take an innovative approach to managing myopia through advanced axial length measurement using Lenstar Myopia. Axial length measurement is a key step in understanding how myopia progresses.
Instead of solely relying on diopters, this technique measures the length of the eye to determine whether it’s elongating too rapidly. Since myopia occurs due to excessive elongation of the eyeball, tracking axial length changes provides a more precise view of myopia’s underlying path and potential complications.
By detecting subtle changes in axial length early, we can personalize our treatment plans to slow myopia progression and reduce the risk of complications, such as retinal issues, glaucoma, or cataracts.
Myopia Control Options
While myopia can’t be reversed, controlling its progression can protect a child’s long-term eye health. Several effective strategies, backed by scientific research, are available today.
Low-Dose Atropine Drops
Low-dose atropine eye drops are a proven option for managing myopia progression in children. These drops work by slowing the elongation of the eyeball, which is the primary cause of worsening myopia.
These drops are easy to administer, making them a simple, noninvasive solution for younger kids, especially if they have myopia that’s developing quickly.
Peripheral Defocus Contact Lenses
Peripheral defocus contact lenses are designed to correct vision while simultaneously reducing the progression of myopia. These lenses create a defocused image on the periphery of the retina, which signals the eye to slow its growth.
They’re comfortable, effective, and offer the dual benefit of clear central vision and myopia management. Peripheral defocus contact lenses are an excellent choice for active children who might prefer the freedom of contact lenses.
Progressive Multifocal & Bifocal Glasses
Progressive multifocal and bifocal glasses provide a practical solution for children experiencing myopia progression. These lenses offer multiple corrective powers, allowing for clear distance vision while reducing strain during activities like reading or computer use.
Altering the focus in specific areas of the lens helps manage the stress on the eyes, which can contribute to myopia progression. This makes them an accessible and versatile option for everyday wear.
Outdoor Activities & Lifestyle Adjustments
Encouraging children to spend more time outdoors has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of myopic progression. Natural light stimulates healthy eye development, while breaks from near-work activities like reading or screen time reduce strain on the eyes.
Myopia & Astigmatism
It’s fairly common for myopia and astigmatism to occur together. While myopia results from an elongated eyeball or steep corneal curvature, astigmatism arises when the cornea or lens is irregularly shaped, causing blurred vision at all distances.
Both can be addressed through a combination of customized eyeglasses or contact lenses. Toric lenses are often prescribed as they are specifically designed to handle both refractive errors simultaneously. Managing these conditions together can help your child experience better overall vision quality.
Why Early Myopia Management Matters
Myopia does far more than cause blurry distance vision. Without management, it can lead to an increased risk of severe eye conditions, including:
- Retinal detachment due to excessive elongation of the eyeball
- Glaucoma is caused by heightened intraocular pressure
- Cataracts occurring earlier than usual
By addressing myopia early and committing to its management, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of these complications, safeguarding your child’s vision for the future.
Build the Foundation for Healthy Vision with Arc Eye Care
At Arc Eye Care, we’re on a mission to provide cutting-edge solutions for myopia and other vision problems. Whether you’re exploring axial length monitoring with Lenstar Myopia or seeking low-dose atropine treatment, our experienced team is here to guide you through personalized care plans tailored to your child’s needs.
Don’t wait for myopia to progress. Take the first step toward managing your child’s eye health with a comprehensive eye exam at Arc Eye Care. Schedule an appointment today and give your family the gift of clearer, healthier vision.
