What is it?
Myopia, or nearsightedness, is the leading ocular condition worldwide. Currently, nearly 30% of children are myopic, making myopia the leading cause of visual impairment in our youth. Research shows that the incidence of myopia is projected to increase at an alarming rate- estimating that by the year 2050, nearly 52% of children will become nearsighted.
How does it affect vision?
Increased amounts of myopia have been shown to increase the risk of other serious ocular conditions such as: myopic maculopathy, retinal detachments, glaucoma and cataracts. Progressing even -1.00 diopter of myopia increases the risk of these conditions by 10%.
What makes children become more myopic?
We know that there is an environmental and genetic component to myopia. 70% of myopia today is based on environmental factors such as lack of outdoor time and increased near work demand. About 30% is attributed to a genetic component, meaning increased likelihood of myopia progression when two parents are myopic.
So what are the treatment options?
Myopia control is a treatment program that works to slow down the amount of nearsightedness progression by minimizing large jumps in children’s prescription. There are three treatment options: orthokeratology (ortho-K), soft multifocal contact lenses and medical intervention using atropine eye drops. The type of treatment program will depend on the patient’s prescription, age and the comfort level of his or her parent/guardian.
How do we get started?
The best way to determine if your child requires myopia control treatment is to have them come in for an eye exam on a regular basis, typically yearly or sooner if your child complains of blurry vision with their current correction. Our eye care professionals at Fine Eyewear will discuss the best option for your child and can answer any additional questions you may have. Schedule your child’s eye exam today!
Fine Eyewear and Eyecare offers comprehensive eye exams for glasses and contact lenses. Our eye doctors provide advanced vision care to the families of Austin, Cedar Park, Leander, Georgetown, Round Rock and surrounding communities. With 2 locations to serve you better. Visit our main website to read more about our eye wear collections : http://www.fineeyewear.net/eyeglasses-collection-austin.shtml