olivermillsukOver forty individuals out of a hundred in the US have myopia (or nearsightedness), most of them being children. Do you know the reason behind this? It happens due to increased screen time, close-up views, and working in dimly lit environments. Worry not – such a condition can be easily prevented or slowed down by following specific methods that this blog will mention. Also, it explains how a myopia treatment helps restore their normal sight. In this context, it must be noted that once myopia sets in, it does not resolve. But the good news is that it is possible to protect their vision from further worsening. Read on to learn more!
Why Is Myopia Such a Growing Concern For Children?
Although myopia is not a fatal condition, it can often progress into a much-advanced stage if not intervened on time. Such a high myopia case is characterized by retinal detachment, crossed eyes, etc. In extreme conditions, it can lead to glaucoma and cataracts too. Typically, myopia sets in early childhood, progressing at an alarming rate of 0.50 diopter every year. However, it gets arrested during the later stage of life, preferably in the adolescent or pre-teen phase. Whatever it may be – prioritizing eye checkups every six months is a must!
(Note: Diopter is a unit that quantifies the refractive ability of the eyes. It is useful in preparing corrective lens prescriptions.)
Slowing Down Myopia Progression: Methods Explained!
The best option to curb myopia is using single-vision glasses. These are corrective eyewear and can minimize refractive errors in your child’s eyes. However, this is not the only option for myopia treatment. Here’s a comprehensive list of other therapeutic approaches that can effectively reduce the progression rate of myopia.
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Using low-dose atropine drops:
These eye drops are usually administered to toddlers and young teenagers. Preferably given before bedtime, these drops can help prevent the lengthening of eyeballs, a prime cause of myopia. According to research and current medical reports, more than 90% of kids using this eye drop had a significant reduction in myopic symptoms than those who did not. There may be some side effects like irritation and reddening of the eyes; however, these are temporary and go away on their own.
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Wearing orthokeratology (ortho-k) contact lenses
These are special lenses meant to be worn overnight. They help reshape the frontal lens surface or the cornea, thus promoting visual clarity. Particularly beneficial for daytime vision, these lenses do not offer a permanent solution. Once you keep down your lenses, the cornea returns to its previous shape. Another drawback is that ortho-k lenses are difficult to wear and do not fit properly. Your child may also experience an increased risk of eye infections.
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Peripheral defocus contact lenses
These are suitable for children between six and twelve years old. A peripheral defocus contact lens is a unique multifocal contact lens that is beneficial for obtaining visual acuity at different focus angles, particularly for sharpening distance vision. However, these lenses are not suitable for children of all age groups. In addition, there is always the disadvantage of corneal infection when using contacts.
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Vision therapy
This involves eye exercises specially designed for children. Visual improvement aids like prisms, filters, and computer games are employed here to synchronize eye and brain functions. This helps train the eyes to obtain enhanced focus and visual clarity so that myopic symptoms do not progress. Additionally, it eases unnecessary eye strain and associated headaches.
How do Ophthalmologists Track Progressive Myopia?
Routine eye checkups are crucial for monitoring your child’s eye condition. According to eye experts, a child must have their initial eye exam at the age of six months, with frequent follow-ups till the age of two or three years. Even if your child does not complain of an eyesight problem, still take him for checkups.
If the ophthalmologist diagnoses myopia in your child’s eye, he will suggest follow-up visits. Various diagnostic tools will be employed for tracking the condition’s progress, such as refractive power measurement, axial eye length etc. Depending on the reports obtained, the doctor will guide you on a suitable myopia treatment plan for your child.
Top Tips to Prevent Myopia in Your Child
Do not miss out on the tips mentioned below, which are crucial in arresting myopia progression. Here’s what you can do.
- Allowing children to play outside in natural light:
According to current research, kids who spend more time outside in playful activities are less likely to develop myopic eyes than those who do not. They can give their eyes a break by focusing on far objects and making certain eyeball movements.
- Making them study in well-lit rooms:
Proper lighting is necessary to reduce unnecessary pressure on your child’s eyes. Ensure the light source is kept near them to prevent shadows and reflections while they read.
- Limiting screen time:
One of the prime causes of myopia is spending long hours in front of digital screens. Nowadays, children mostly use tablets and smartphones to read and play games. Just ensure they do not overspend their time gazing at the screens that emit harmful radiation. These can negatively affect your child’s vision in the long run and cause permanent eye disorders.Being a parent, you can do the following.
► Maintaining a time tracker to minimize the time your child spends on the phones, desktops, etc.
► Establishing a “no-phone zone” at home, preferably at the food table and living room. This will increase quality time with family members and strengthen the bonds.
► Setting in realistic expectations for your child’s overall benefit. Do not suddenly cut down on screen time; instead, sit with them and explain the disadvantages of using digital screens too much.
► Engaging with your child in exciting and fun-filled conversations. This may include participating in an indoor sport or talking about real-life scenarios. Just keep in mind that this time must be free from electrical or digital devices.
- Teaching children to apply the 20-20-20 rule:
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology recommendations, individuals must take a small break every twenty minutes from their current activity and focus their vision as much as twenty feet away for at least 20 seconds.
Conclusion
We all know the proverb ‘prevention is better than cure’. This similar concept applies to managing eye disease progression, especially for children. However, if myopia persists, don’t hesitate to contact the available eye clinics in New York and opt for an immediate myopia treatment!
