Worsening Nearsightedness? Why You Should Ask Your Eye Doctor About a Control Program

If you or your child has nearsightedness (myopia), you should consider a program to slow the worsening. Myopia nearly always worsens in children, and the younger they become nearsighted, the longer it has to worsen! 

Understanding What Myopia Is 
Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is when the distance vision is blurry. It has several causes, but the most common one, especially in children, is that the eye is simply too long. 

The distance blur from myopia can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, and refractive surgery (such as LASIK). However, none of these fix the root of the problem, which is the eye being too long and still getting longer.  The eye can continue growing until approximately age 25. 
How Myopia Control Works

Myopia Control influences or ‘tricks’ the eye into not getting longer. This is accomplished with the manipulation of light as it enters the eye with specialty contact lenses, or temporary alterations to the front surface of the eye. Studies have also shown that custom concentrations of dilating eye drops limit myopia progression. 
Risks of Increased Myopia 

Many issues can arise from an increased amount of myopia, from increased dependence on glasses to risks of serious vision threatening conditions. Stronger myopia means thicker, heavier, and more expensive glasses. It can also cause worsening sports performance, lower self-esteem, and even a decreased chance of successful LASIK in the future. 

Which Myopia Control Option is Best?
Any myopia control is better than none, and with several options available, nearly every person under age 25 is a candidate for myopia control. A comprehensive eye exam can help determine which myopia control option is best suited to the individual’s needs and lifestyle. 

Responsible children as young as age 6 can be great candidates for daily contact lenses. Younger children, or children who have difficulty with contact lenses, can use specialty overnight contact lenses (ortho-k) with parents’ supervision, or the customized eye drops. 
Schedule an Appointment Today

Myopia Control is the best way to protect your vision for the future. 

If you're interested in learning more or finding out if you or your child could benefit from a myopia control program, schedule an appointment with Frontline Vision. Visit our office in Spokane Valley, Washington, or call (509) 425-0335 to book an appointment today.