Effective Myopia Management Treatments: Which One is Right for Your Child?

As parents, protecting your child's vision is vital to their growth, learning, and overall quality of life. One of the most common vision concerns for children today is myopia, often referred to as nearsightedness. With the rise in digital screen usage and less time spent outdoors, more children are developing myopia earlier in life.
 

What is Myopia?

Myopia is a refractive error that causes distant objects to appear blurry, while close objects remain clear. This condition occurs when the eye grows too long or the cornea becomes too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. Myopia usually begins in childhood and can progress over time, leading to higher prescription needs and, in some cases, an increased risk of eye diseases later in life.
 

Why is Myopia Management Essential?

Managing myopia isn’t just about helping your child see clearly today; it’s about protecting their eye health in the long run. Studies have shown that children with high myopia are at a greater risk for eye conditions like glaucoma, retinal detachment, and cataracts as they age. By slowing the progression of myopia early on, we can help reduce these risks and improve your child’s overall eye health. At EyeXcel, we offer several proven treatments to manage myopia, each tailored to the unique needs of your child.
 

Multifocal Soft Contact Lenses

Multifocal soft contact lenses are designed with different zones for near and distance vision, which can help slow the progression of myopia. Studies have found that wearing multifocal lenses can reduce the eye’s growth, which is directly linked to myopia progression. They’re comfortable, easy to use, and a great choice for children who are active and benefit from the freedom of wearing contacts rather than glasses.
 

MiSight® 1 Day Soft Contact Lenses

MiSight® 1 day lenses are the first FDA-approved contact lenses specifically designed to slow myopia progression in children. These daily disposable lenses use innovative technology that corrects nearsightedness while managing the eye's axial growth, helping to slow down the progression of myopia. MiSight® lenses are a convenient option as they require no cleaning, making them particularly suitable for young children new to contact lens wear.
 

Orthokeratology or Corneal Refractive Therapy (CRT)

Orthokeratology, also known as Ortho-K, involves the use of specially designed gas-permeable lenses that are worn overnight to reshape the cornea temporarily. This reshaping corrects vision during the day without the need for glasses or contact lenses. Ortho-K not only corrects your child’s vision but also helps slow the progression of myopia. Many parents and children appreciate Ortho-K’s benefits, as it provides clear vision during the day without the need for corrective eyewear.
 

Atropine Eye Drops

Atropine drops are another effective option for myopia management. Studies show that low-dose atropine drops, used nightly, can significantly slow the progression of myopia in children. While atropine does not improve vision directly, it alters the growth patterns in the eye that lead to increased myopia. This treatment is particularly beneficial for children who may not yet be ready for contact lenses or Ortho-K.
 

Which Treatment is Right for Your Child?

At EyeXcel, we recognize that each child’s eyes are unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for managing myopia. Our approach begins with a comprehensive eye exam and an in-depth consultation to understand your child’s vision needs, lifestyle, and eye health history. Based on these insights, our team will recommend a personalized treatment plan tailored specifically to your child’s needs, combining one or more of the above options if needed.
 

If you're ready to explore effective myopia management treatments and protect your child's future vision, schedule an eye exam with EyeXcel today. Contact our office in Hardin Valley by calling (865) 243-8260 to book an appointment today.