Parents Concerned Question – Answer Regarding Their Child’s Myopia

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a refractive error in which the cornea is too curved. Therefore, it forces light to focus in front of the retina instead of its surface, thus making distant objects appear blurry. Myopia in children is common, and it has no cure.

Should Myopia be Controlled or Treated in Children’s Eyes?

Since Myopia has no cure, both approaches are administered. However, a more comprehensive approach combines elements of control and treatment to have the most significant benefits in containing the condition and slowing down its progression.

Techniques Used to Slow Down Myopia (controlling)

Use of specialized contact lenses – In a process known as orthokeratology, a particular type of contact lens called Ortho-K is administered. It is worn at night and helps by reshaping the cornea, thus reducing the amount of Myopia.

• Atropine eye drops – Atropine eye drops are ideal for myopia control. Atropine is a chemical agent used to dilate pupils. Once applied to the eyes, it slows down the progression of Myopia since it reduces the amount of light that reaches the retina.
• Punctual plugs are small silicone plugs inserted inside the tear ducts to minimize the number of tears that drain from the eye. It helps to halt the advancement of Myopia.

Techniques Employed to Treat Myopia

Treating Myopia involves correcting the refractive error via glasses, contact lenses, or refractive treatment. These solutions provide immediate visual improvement for children with Myopia, enhancing their quality of life, well-being, and academics.

When considering options for treating or controlling Myopia, you should understand that as much as treatment provides an immediate visual improvement, it does not address the underlying progression. It could push children to rely more on visual aids in the future.

It is favorably recommended to use a balanced approach that employs both strategies. Doctors should implement measures to control myopia progression and provide an ideal vision correction. Using both approaches helps address the child’s immediate visual concerns while not jeopardizing their future due to Myopia-related risks.

The best results are achieved using a comprehensive strategy, including treatment and control techniques. Doctors optimize visual outcomes, minimize long-term risks and improve the overall well-being of kids affected by Myopia. If you have a child with several myopia symptoms, visit a nearby eye doctor. It improves the chances of success for any treatment plan.

Does Any Child’s Bad Habits Cause Myopia?

First, it’s important to note that the exact cause of Myopia is not understood as much as Myopia is a condition that is inherited. Certain lifestyle habits multiply the risk of developing the condition. A child’s habits can increase the risk of Myopia. Habits don’t directly cause Myopia but contribute to its development or progression.

Habits Thought to Cause Myopia

• Screen time – The total time spent staring at electronic devices such as monitors, televisions, computers, smartphones, and tablets contributes significantly to the development of Myopia. According to research, spending more time on the screens increases the risk of developing Myopia for children and adolescents.
• Close-up activities include activities performed while observing them closely with your eyes. Prolonged reading and other close-up activities cause eye strain and increase the risk of nearsightedness.
• Indoor activities – according to research, spending too much time indoors heightens the risk of nearsightedness. Thus, children should spend much of their day outdoors, particularly during daylight hours.
• Environmental conditions – particular environmental conditions such as spending most of the time in urban centers with limited green space or indoor environments increase the risk of Myopia.
• Poor lighting – when children spend most of their time in rooms with poor lighting conditions, particularly when reading or studying, it strains the eyes and contributes to myopia development.

Conclusion

Myopia is a condition that, if not contained, could lead to severe visual defects in the later years, such as cataracts, glaucoma, and even permanent blindness. Parents should thus be very observant of their children and seek doctors’ help immediately they notice the slightest symptoms of Myopia.

When you notice signs of Myopia in your child, visit Dr. Allyson Tang Optometrist – Vaughan, and get professional help. She is a well-experienced optometrist and will help you to ensure your child’s future is secured in terms of visual clarity.