Myopia Management at EyeCare Associates
Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a prevalent vision condition that can significantly escalate the risk of developing sight-threatening eye diseases later in life, such as cataracts, glaucoma, retinal detachment, and macular degeneration.
It’s important to note that the severity of these conditions is directly proportional to the degree of myopia. This should raise a red flag for parents, and we urge you to take proactive steps to protect your child’s eye health.
Understanding Myopia and Its Risks
Myopia is the difficulty or inability to see distant objects. It occurs when your eye lengthens; this shape makes the eye focus light in front of your retina rather than on it.
This stretching can lead to an increased risk of several severe eye conditions. Genetics play a significant role in myopia development; a child with one nearsighted parent is at an increased risk, and if both parents are nearsighted, the risk multiplies dramatically.
Additionally, lifestyle factors and extended near work can contribute to its progression.
The Importance of Myopia Management
While eyeglasses and standard contact lenses can correct vision, they do not address the underlying cause of myopia or slow its progression. This is where myopia management comes in.
As a parent, you play a crucial role in managing your child's myopia. Myopia management involves using various tools and treatments to prevent or slow the progression of myopia, helping your child maintain better vision for longer.
Our Myopia Management Services
At EyeCare Associates, we offer a comprehensive approach to managing myopia tailored to your child's needs. Our services include:
Professional Treatments:
Advice and Suggestions From Our Team:
- Multifocal Lenses and Glasses: Designed to provide clear vision and reduce eye strain.
- MiSight Lenses: FDA-approved contact lenses specifically designed to slow myopia progression.
- Atropine Eye Drops: Dilate pupils to prevent over-focusing and slow myopic progression.
- Vision Therapy: A specialized program of exercises to improve eye teaming, focusing, and movements.
- Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Specialized contact lenses reshape the cornea and improve vision temporarily when worn overnight.
- Visual Hygiene Practices: We advise patients on limiting screen time, taking frequent breaks, ensuring proper lighting, and maintaining proper posture and working distance when reading or studying.
- Nutrition and Lifestyle: We provide guidance on maintaining a healthy diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, staying hydrated, and taking certain supplements to support eye health.
- Movement and Exercise: We encourage outdoor activities, regular exercise, and relaxation techniques like yoga, tai chi, or meditation to promote overall well-being and reduce myopia progression.
Contact Us
If you’re concerned about your child’s long-term eye health and vision, contact EyeCare Associates. Our experienced optometrists can provide personalized myopia management options to help maintain your child’s vision and reduce the risk of future eye health issues. Together, we can help your child enjoy a better vision and a brighter future.
