If you think stronger prescription glasses are the right solution to keep your child’s myopia from getting worse, think again. Instead, talk to us about myopia management, which can slow the progression of myopia (nearsightedness) by up to 78%!
How Does Myopia Worsen?
In nearsighted people, the cornea, the clear outer layer of the eye, is more curved than normal. This shape refracts incoming light in front of the retina rather than directly on it. The result: blurred vision.
The longer the eye, the higher, or more severe, the myopia becomes. The following can contribute to the myopia worsening:
- Eye growth – as children grow, myopia may progress.
- Hereditary factors – if one or both parents have myopia, the condition is likely to worsen.
- Not enough outdoor time –1 to 2 hours a day outdoors is recommended.
- Excessive screen time – myopia development and progression has been linked to extended time in front of electronic devices.
What Is Myopia Management?
Myopia management is a custom-designed treatment plan that identifies the root causes of your child’s myopia and slows its progression. Our optometrist provides diagnostic [exams] and creates a myopia management program to keep your child’s nearsightedness in check.
Why Is Myopia Management Important?
Myopia isn’t a problem that should be left alone. The condition doesn’t just affect your child’s ability to see distant objects; it can increase your child’s risk of developing these serious eye problems in adulthood:
- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
- Myopia macular degeneration
- Retinal detachment
The sooner your child begins a program of myopia management, the better the chances of slowing myopia’s progression and reducing the risk of eye complications later on.
Find Out How Myopia Management Can Make the Difference In Your Child’s Vision
If you’re eager to preserve your child’s eyesight now and in the future, myopia management can help. Make an appointment at Vintage Optical in Morton today!
Q: Does screen time affect myopia?
- A: Yes. Myopia is becoming an epidemic. In research published in The Lancet Digital Health (October 2021)studies, an international team of researchers found that at least 3 hours of screen time per day can increase the risk of developing myopia by 30%. Other research suggests that reducing your child’s screen time and encouraging more outdoor activities can prevent myopia and keep it from progressing.