Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a common refractive error. If a person has this condition, they can see objects close up clearly, but objects in the distance appear blurry. Myopia can develop gradually or rapidly, and often during childhood and adolescence. If your child has been diagnosed with myopia, our professionals at Modern Eyes Optometry in Carlsbad can prescribe myopia control methods to slow the condition's progression. This can preserve your child's eyesight, so they won't need a very high prescription later in life.
What Causes Myopia?
Although anyone can develop myopia, it often runs in families. If you are nearsighted, your child has a higher risk of being nearsighted. If both of the child's parents are nearsighted, the risk increases significantly. Some studies have shown that children who don't spend enough time outdoors are at greater risk of becoming nearsighted.
Symptoms of Myopia
Myopia causes objects in the distance to appear blurry. If you have myopia, there are several other symptoms to look for, including:
- Squinting to see clearly
- Eyestrain
- Headaches
- Sitting closer to the TV or in front of the classroom
- Being unaware of objects in the distance
- Excessive blinking
- Frequent rubbing of the eyes
Diagnosing Myopia
Our eye doctor can diagnose myopia during your annual eye exam. Our optometrist will have the patient read letters from the Snellen chart. If your child is very young, our optometrist has them read a chart with pictures. If you cannot see the letter or pictures well, our eye doctor can recommend myopia control methods.
Treatment Options
There are a few options for controlling myopia. These include:
- Atropine eye drops: Atropine eye drops are used during annual eye exams to dilate your eyes. They can also be used to control myopia. Studies have shown that myopia in children is related to focusing fatigue. Atropine eye drops disable the focusing mechanism of the eye, which can control the progression of myopia.
- Orthokeratology: Orthokeratology, also known as Ortho-K, are special contact lenses. These lenses are worn at night, and while you sleep, the contacts gently reshape the cornea. In the morning, the contacts are removed, and your child will be able to see clearly without glasses or contacts. Studies have shown that children who use Orthokeratology for years are less myopic when they are adults than children who didn't.
- Multifocal contact lenses: Multifocal contacts contain prescriptions for closeup and distance vision. These are often prescribed for patients with presbyopia, and studies have shown that they are effective in myopia control.
Contact Our Optometry Team for an Eye Exam in Carlsbad
If you believe you are suffering from myopia, the optometry professionals at Modern Eyes Optometry are ready to assist you. Our optometrist will evaluate your condition and provide you with the most effective possible treatment. For more information on our myopia management or how we can help patients at our Carlsbad location, contact us today.
