Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is an increasingly common vision condition affecting millions worldwide. It is characterized by difficulty seeing distant objects clearly. Below, our Blacksburg eye care team at EYES on Main takes a deep dive into the intricacies of myopia to discuss its causes and symptoms, those most at risk, and the latest treatment options.
What is Myopia?
Myopia occurs when the eye's shape causes incoming light rays to bend incorrectly, focusing images too far forward. Because these images land in front of the retina instead of on it, vision becomes increasingly blurry as objects get further away. The condition can develop rapidly or gradually, often worsening during childhood and as a child hits adolescence.
Causes and Symptoms of Myopia
We can attribute the exact cause of myopia to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Excessive near work, such as reading, using computers or other electronic devices for prolonged periods, and lack of outdoor activity, has been linked to myopia development. Symptoms include blurred vision when looking at distant objects, the need to squint to see clearly, headaches due to eye strain, and difficulties driving, especially at night.
Myopia is becoming increasingly common in children and adolescents, partly due to changing lifestyles, with more time spent in front of computers and other digital devices and less time spent outdoors. A family history of myopia also increases the long-term risk of developing this condition.
The Importance of Effective Myopia Management
Managing myopia effectively is crucial for immediate vision correction and mitigating long-term risks associated with uncontrolled myopia progression. When left unchecked, myopia can escalate beyond mere inconvenience to pose serious long-term threats to eye health. Studies show that high levels of myopia increase the risk of developing conditions such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, cataracts, and myopic maculopathy, all of which can be potentially sight-threatening, leading to significant vision impairment or even blindness.
Options to Slow or Stop Myopia Progression
There is a link between significant myopia progression and the elongation of the eyeball, which can cause the retina to stretch and thin, compromising its function and integrity. This makes early and proactive management of myopia critical, especially in children, where the condition can progress rapidly. By employing strategies such as regular eye examinations, atropine eye drops, ortho-k lenses, and DIMS spectacle lenses, you can slow myopia progression, thereby reducing the risk of developing severe ocular conditions later in life.
You can find more information about these effective treatments to stop or slow myopia progression below:
Atropine Eye Drops
Low-dose atropine eye drops have emerged as a promising treatment for slowing myopia progression in children. While it's not fully understood why exactly atropine drops work to slow or stop myopia progression, many believe that atropine blocks certain receptors in the eye, which may be involved in the growth of the eye. This method of myopia management requires careful monitoring by an eye care professional to balance its effectiveness with potential side effects like light sensitivity and difficulty focusing on close objects. Speak to our eye care team to see if this is a good option for your child.
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)
Ortho-k involves wearing specially designed rigid gas-permeable contact lenses overnight to temporarily reshape the cornea, correcting myopia for the following day. Studies show that this treatment not only corrects vision temporarily but also slows myopia progression in children. It is reversible, offering a non-surgical alternative to those seeking freedom from glasses or daytime contacts. Because of this, it also does not rule out LASIK as a viable vision correction option for your child later in life.
Defocus Incorporated Multiple Segments (DIMS) Spectacle Lenses
DIMS spectacle lenses represent a novel approach to myopia management. These lenses are designed with a central optical zone for correcting distance vision, surrounded by multiple segments that create a constant defocus across different viewing distances. This defocus is believed to signal the eye to reduce its elongation, slowing down myopia progression. Clinical trials have shown promising results, making DIMS lenses a viable myopia management option for parents looking for innovative and effective treatments.
Embracing a Comprehensive Approach to Myopia Management
The management of myopia requires a tailored approach, considering the individual's age, the degree of myopia, and lifestyle. Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and intervention. Combining treatments like atropine eye drops with lifestyle adjustments, such as increased outdoor activities and regulated screen time, can significantly impact myopia progression and enhance overall eye health.
While myopia remains a global challenge, advances in treatment options offer hope for effectively managing the condition and improving the quality of life for those affected. Speak to our team of eye care professionals at EYES on Main to determine the most appropriate treatment strategy based on individual needs.