Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a refractive error that causes difficult viewing distant-range objects, while nearby objects remain clear. The condition typically emerges in childhood. Since vision is a huge part of learning and social development, it’s important that childhood myopia is diagnosed promptly and treated effectively.
Today, the eyesight and cataract doctor at EyeSite of The Villages discusses common treatment methods for myopia in children.
Atropine Eye Drops
The atropine drops used by your cataract or glaucoma doctor during an eye exam is usually heavily diluted and its effects wear off after an hour or two. Prolonged usage is actually not advised because it can have long-term side effects. However, myopia in children can be treated safely with atropine to allow the eyes to relax and relieve retina fatigue, a common cause of nearsightedness in young people.
Ortho-K
Ortho-k (short for orthokeratology) involves the use of specialized “breathable” contact lenses that are worn overnight to correct the shape of your eyes. Multiple studies have shown that ortho-k is an effective way to slow down the typical progression of myopia in children.
Multifocal Lenses
Multifocal lenses can be prescribed by your glaucoma or cataract doctor to help presbyopia and some cases of near and farsightedness with or without astigmatism. Recent studies have shown that it also shows promising results with slowing the progression of myopia in children.
Keeping nearsightedness under control is best started during childhood. Talk to our doctors at EyeSite of The Villages to find a solution that’s right for your child. Give us a call at (352) 674-3937 or fill out our contact form to request an appointment today. We serve patients in Lady Lake, Oxford and nearby areas in FL.
