The Eye Site Children's Myopia Management Program
We are one of the first optometric practices in the Michiana area to offer comprehensive Myopia management resources to children
Myopia is sometimes called “nearsightedness” but it is so much more.
It is a chronic and progressive disease that is quickly becoming the biggest threat to eye health in the 21st Century. Myopia may be caused by both genetic and environmental factors. Half of the world’s population is projected to be myopic by 2050, with nearly 1 billion people expected to have high myopia.
Children who are diagnosed with myopia are at greater risk of developing high myopia which may lead to sight threatening disease later in life, including risk of retinal degeneration or detachment, cataracts, or glaucoma—all of which can lead to visual impairment and blindness.
Why We Treat Myopia in Children at The Eye Site
Reducing nearsightedness will decrease the risks of ocular disease such as cataracts, glaucoma, macular issues, and retinal detachments. Slowing the progression by just 1 diopter reduces the risk of myopia maculopathy by 40%, glaucoma by 20%, and visual impairment by 20%.
If both parents have myopia, the child has a 50% chance of being myopic. If one parent has myopia, the risk goes to 33%. And if neither parent is myopic, the risk is still 25%!
At The Eye Site, we recommend being proactive in slowing the progression of myopia, which will reduce the risk of ocular disease later in life.
What Are The Treatment Options for My Child?
Current studies show the following treatment modalities to be most effective:
1. Orthokeratology (OrthoK)
OrthoK, also known as gentle vision shaping, can slow the progression of myopia from 30-100%, based on several studies. The average reduction is about 50%. Custom-designed vision retainer lenses are used nightly while sleeping to gently change the shape of the eye. We love this treatment option because not only does it slow myopia progression, but the patient will see great without the use of any contacts or glasses during the day as well! This option is recommended for patients under 18 years of age with an Rx between -1 and -4, and no less than one diopter of astigmatism. This treatment is FDA approved.
2. Atropine Eye Drops
Atropine drops can slow the progression of myopia based on several studies. Concentrations as low as 0.01% have been shown to be as effective as 1%. This is great news, because common side effects of the 1% concentration can be pupil dilation, light sensitivity, and temporary loss of ability to focus. Because of this, we recommend treatment with a 0.01% concentration, which has been shown to minimize side effects while still producing the desired results. Through our visits, we will evaluate the effectiveness and increase the concentration if it is appropriate. This treatment is not FDA approved, but is widely used by doctors across the country.
3. Soft Dual Focus Contact Lenses
Soft Dual Focus contact lenses have been shown to slow the progression of myopia by 30-45%.We use either Natural Vue or MiSight lenses. This treatment is FDA approved. The lens needs to be worn approximately 10 hours a day, for six days a week for optimal treatment results.
The goal of Myopia Management is a 50% reduction in nearsightedness. There are times when this will not occur. We will adjust treatments as necessary to optimize outcomes. The treatment must be consistent to work, and it is crucial to attend follow-up appointments for best outcomes.
How do you know if Myopia Management is right for your child?
Start by speaking to your eye doctor. We are trained professionals who can identify whether our Myopia Management program would be an appropriate path of treatment for your child’s individual situation.
Each treatment option is designed to correct specific aspects of myopia and is not designed for general treatment of the condition. Our recommendation for your child will be based on the findings of their exam, and whether their individual case meets the parameters that can be treated with these modalities.
Lifestyle Adjustments Are Also Helpful in Preventing Myopia
Myopia (nearsighedness) is a complex ocular condition with a variety of both genetic and environmental causes. Although genetics are tough to combat, there are several lifestyle changes that may slow the rate of progression.
- Time Spent Outdoors
Several studies have shown that increased time spent outdoors slows the rate of progression of myopia in school-aged children. - Time Spent Doing Near Work
There is a strong correlation to time spent doing near work and children’s rates of myopia.
Screen time (computers, television, and phones) is considered to be a factor in rising rates of myopia in children. - Nutrition
Studies have shown that children with highly processed diets have higher glycemic levels (higher blood sugar levels), and in turn, this can be associated with higher levels of myopia.
