Controlling the Progression of Myopia in Children
Myopia is becoming more prevalent amongst children. Moreover, we are finding it in younger children and to a higher degree. At AVC, we are able to slow the progression of myopia in children so they grow up with a lower prescription.
What is Myopia
Also known as nearsightedness or short-sightedness, myopia refers to the inability to see objects far away clearly. Myopia a vision disorder called a refractive error, which means light from objects in the distance do not focus directly on the retina. Due to the shape of the eye, light focuses in front of the retina, and requires a lens to move it back to fall on the retina, giving a clear image. Myopia is generally a progressive condition, and can worsen over time.
Children may have myopia without complaining about it, because they may not know any better. There are many signs you as a parent can look out for. If you notice any of these behaviors, bring your child in for an eye exam at Advanced Vision Care and Dry Eye Spa.
- Holding reading or digital devices close to their face
- Writing with their head very close to their work
- Sitting too close to the television
- Squinting when looking in the distance
- Regular complaints of headaches
- Trouble focusing at school
Controlling Myopia
Nearsightedness (myopia) can often progress quickly in children to require a strong prescription to see well. Luckily, we have a method that has been shown to slow this progression, called orthokeratology (ortho-k), which is available for children and adults
Also known as orthokeratology, these contacts help correct nearsightedness and astigmatism through a process called corneal refractive therapy (CRT) which gently reshapes the cornea as you sleep. CRT lenses are worn at night, and they correct the curvature of the cornea while you’re sleeping so you can see clearly during the day without glasses or contacts. For this reason, it is often also referred to as corneal reshaping, corneal refractive therapy, or vision reshaping. With continued use, the daytime prescription will lessen over time. Eventually, daytime glasses or contact lenses may not be necessary, as long as nighttime therapy is still undertaken.
Paragon CRT® ortho-k lenses are FDA-approved for children and adults and have been prescribed to over 1.5 million patients, in over 50 countries worldwide. Talk to a doctor at Advanced Vision Care and Dry Eye Spa about myopia treatment.
MiSight Contact Lenses from CooperVision
The FIRST and ONLY FDA-approved* soft contact lens proven to slow the progression of myopia (nearsightedness) in children, aged 8-12 at the initiation of treatment. Ask our staff if these comfortable soft contacts can help your child.