Pediatric Myopia Management
Myopia is the medical term for nearsightedness. Nearsighted patients can see near objects clearly, but far away objects are blurry. Children with myopia may experience headaches, squint to see objects at a distance, move closer to the television, or might be struggling in school because they cannot see clearly.
Over the last 30 years, myopia in the U.S. has increased 66% and it is predicted that by 2050, 50% of the world’s population will be myopic. This growing problem is a concern because myopic eyes are naturally longer than average, putting the patient at a higher risk for developing vision threatening conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, myopic maculopathy, and retinal detachments.
Myopia management consists of three different methods that help slow myopia progression and therefore reduce the risk of ocular complications.
- Orthokeratology: Corneal Reshaping Contact Lens (CRT)
Custom contact lenses worn overnight to eliminate the need for correction during the day. - Multifocal Soft Contact Lens
Specialty soft contact lens worn during the day with combined distance and near power. - Atropine Eye Drops
Instillation of a low concentration dilating eye drop.
These treatment options are making it possible for us to now not only help the patient see better, but also help to slow the progression of myopia.
If you are interested in getting evaluated to see if you are a good candidate for one of these treatment options, or would like more information, make an appointment.