Your child squints at the board, moves closer to the TV, or says distant signs look blurry. An eye exam confirms myopia, or nearsightedness.
It’s increasingly common among children. Larger research has estimated that nearly half of the global population could have myopia by 2050.
For parents, the key question is how quickly their child’s myopia is progressing. Starting with a pediatric eye exam at Newton Optometry Clinic, we can help put together the appropriate management plan.
Why Progressive Myopia is Concerning
Myopia develops when the eye grows too long, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it, leading to blurry distance vision.
Because children’s eyes are still growing, their myopia may continue to progress through the school years. Higher levels of myopia are associated with a greater lifetime risk of certain eye conditions, making the control of its progression an important part of long-term vision care.
Signs of Childhood Myopia
Children may assume the way they see is normal, so parents can watch for:
- Squinting at distant objects
- Trouble seeing the board at school
- Sitting closer to the TV
- Saying distant signs or faces look blurry
- Needing stronger glasses prescriptions over time
A comprehensive eye exam can identify myopia and help your eye doctor track changes as your child grows.
Ways to Slow Nearsightedness
Myopia management aims to slow the progression of nearsightedness. The right approach depends on factors such as your child’s age, prescription, eye growth, and daily routine.
Myopia Control Glasses
MiYOSMART lenses correct blurry vision while using D.I.M.S. technology to slow myopia progression.
In a two-year clinical trial, children wearing D.I.M.S. lenses had 52% less myopia progression and 62% less eye growth on average than children wearing standard single-vision eyeglasses.
For children who already prefer glasses, MiYOSMART can make myopia management part of their everyday routine.
Daily Contact Lenses
MiSight 1-day contact lenses correct distance vision while helping slow myopia progression.
In a three-year clinical study, children wearing MiSight had 59% less myopia progression and 52% less eye growth on average than children wearing standard single-vision daily contacts.
A fresh pair is worn each day, with no overnight cleaning or storage. Your eye doctor can determine whether your child is ready for contact lenses and teach them how to handle them safely.
Eye Drop Therapy
Low-dose atropine eye drops may be recommended for some children. Research has found that low concentrations can slow myopia progression, although results vary by concentration.
Atropine requires an individual treatment plan and follow-up care. Your eye doctor can decide whether it is suitable for your child and monitor how their eyes respond.
Find Myopia Control Options in Surrey
Appropriate myopia management starts with an eye exam and a clear picture of how your child’s vision is changing. Age, prescription, rate of progression, eye health, and lifestyle can all influence which option makes sense.
Childhood is an important time to keep track of myopia. Starting management when appropriate can slow progression during years when the eyes are still developing.
If your child is having trouble seeing far away or their prescription keeps getting stronger, book an eye exam at Newton Optometry Clinic today.
Myopia FAQ
Can Childhood Myopia Be Cured?
There is currently no cure for myopia. Glasses and contacts correct blurry vision, while myopia management treatments slow its progression.
When Should Myopia Management Start?
There is no single starting age. Your eye doctor can consider your child’s age, prescription, eye growth, family history, and rate of progression when making a recommendation.
Does My Child Still Need Eye Exams During Treatment?
Yes. Follow-up exams help your eye doctor to track changes and see how your child is responding to treatment.