Seeing Beyond the Blur: How Myopia Management Revolutionizes Vision Correction

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is the inability to see far objects or images clearly. It occurs when the eye grows too long or the cornea is too curved. People with myopia find it difficult to watch TV or see road signs. The condition affects people of all ages and usually develops in childhood. Studies suggest myopia affects up to 40% of individuals worldwide. Here are ways myopia management is revolutionizing vision correction:
 

Blurry Vision — Worsening of Myopia

Individuals with myopia often experience blurry vision, which can make it difficult to perform various activities. Myopia is often corrected using eyeglasses or contact lenses, but patients may opt for laser surgery. A patient’s vision usually continues to worsen over several years before peaking in early adulthood.
 

Most people require updated lens prescriptions every one or two years. Myopia can increase the risk of developing eye diseases such as cataracts and glaucoma. Vision therapy and myopia management can reduce the risk of developing ocular diseases.
 

What Causes Worsening of Myopia

Continued lengthening of the eye can result in myopia progression. Several factors can lead to a worsening of myopia.
They include:
 

·      Natural eye growth in children can worsen myopia.

·      Myopia progression can be due to genetics, especially if both parents have myopia.

·      Wearing low-myopia eyeglasses constantly, even for near-vision tasks.

·      Failing to spend time outdoors.

·      Prolonged digital device use.

·      Extended time on near-vision tasks.
 

Eye doctors often recommend under correction to prevent the worsening of myopia. Studies suggest that wearing lenses with full correction may lead to myopia progression.
 

Vision Correction with Myopia Management

Research suggests that 10% of people with myopia will experience a worsening of the condition. Myopia management can help slow the progression of the condition. Changes in lifestyle habits can affect myopia progression. Limiting the time spent on digital devices can help.
 

Taking frequent breaks when using digital devices, making light adjustments, and using proper screen placement can help protect the eyes. Spending more time outdoors can also help slow myopia progression. Natural light allows the eye muscles to relax and focus on far objects.
 

Choosing Myopia Management Options

Myopia management can help halt or slow myopia progression, reducing the risk of sight-threatening eye conditions. Doctors recommend various solutions for myopia management, including:
 

·      Myopia control (bifocal and multifocal) eyeglasses.

·      Myopia control contact lenses.

·      Atropine eye drops.

·      Orthokeratology (ortho-k) or corneal refractive therapy (CRT).

·      Vision therapy.
 

The eye doctor will recommend the best management options depending on the patient’s visual condition and other factors.
 

Early Detection of Myopia

Detecting myopia early is the best way to slow its progression. Regular eye exams during childhood allow eye doctors to detect signs of myopia. Eye exams are essential even for patients with no symptoms or those who do not require vision correction. Children with parents with myopia are at high risk of developing the condition. Exams should begin when a child is six months old and continue throughout their lifetime.
 

People with myopia have a high risk of developing severe eye diseases. Myopia management is most effective when implemented in childhood.
 

For more on how myopia management is revolutionizing vision correction, visit Ridgeview Eye Care at our offices in Olathe and De Soto, Kansas. Call (913) 270-8598 to book an appointment today.