Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is a refractive error that affects millions of people worldwide. Those with nearsightedness can see nearby objects clearly, but distant objects appear blurry. The prevalence myopia been increasing, particularly among children and adolescents, making myopia control essential. Before visiting Primary Eyecare & Optical of Meridian in Meridian, MS, continue reading to learn more about myopia control!
Understanding Myopia
Myopia occurs when the eyeball is slightly longer than normal or when the cornea has too much curvature. This causes light rays to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. As a result, individuals may struggle to see objects at a distance, impacting daily activities such as driving, participating in sports, or enjoying movies.
The rise in myopia cases has been linked to various factors, including genetics, increased screen time, and reduced outdoor activities. As more children spend time indoors, their risk of developing myopia increases, highlighting the importance of proactive measures for myopia control.
Myopia Control Strategies
Optometry plays a vital role in managing and controlling myopia progression. Some effective strategies our eye doctors may recommend include:
- Regular Eye Exams: Routine eye examinations are crucial for early detection and monitoring of myopia. During these exams, our optometrists can track changes in vision and suggest the appropriate treatments.
- Corrective Lenses: Glasses or contact lenses are commonly used to correct myopia. Specially designed lenses, such as dual-focus or multifocal lenses, can help slow the progression of nearsightedness in children.
- Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): This non-surgical method involves wearing specially designed contact lenses overnight to reshape the cornea temporarily. Many patients experience improved vision once they wake up, reducing or even eliminating the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses.
- Atropine Eye Drops: Low-dose atropine eye drops have been found to slow myopia progression in children. This treatment is often combined with other methods for optimal results.
- Increased Outdoor Activity: Encouraging children to spend more time outdoors can significantly reduce the risk of developing myopia. Natural light exposure and distance viewing help maintain healthy vision.
The Importance of Prompt Treatment
Prompt treatment is crucial in managing myopia and preventing its progression. Early intervention can significantly reduce the risk of developing severe nearsightedness and associated complications, such as retinal detachment or cataracts. By addressing vision issues swiftly, individuals can enhance their overall quality of life and maintain clearer vision.
Contact Us for an Appointment Today!
If you or your child is experiencing symptoms of myopia, it’s essential to seek professional guidance. Our team at Primary Eyecare & Optical of Meridian in Meridian, MS, is dedicated to providing personalized care and effective myopia control solutions. Contact us at (601) 485-2020 today to learn more about our treatments and to schedule an appointment. When you need an optometrist near you, we are ready to assist!