Myopia is the inability to see objects far away. This is also known as nearsightedness or shortsightedness. It occurs when the eye grows too long from the front to back and causes the light to focus before it reaches the retina as opposed to directly on it. Myopia is the most common vision problem and typically begins developing during childhood. Symptoms include headaches, eye strain, squinting, and fatigue. If you suspect your child may have Myopia, contact us for effective Myopia management in Ashburn, VA.
Myopia does not just negatively affect vision capabilities. It also increases your child’s risk of certain eye diseases including retinopathy and Glaucoma.
We have seen an influx of such symptoms in recent years and researchers believe it is due to the increased amount of screen time. Unless correctly managed, Myopia will progress and in many cases progress quickly.
There is no cure for Myopia. Early detection, intervention, and treatment can help slow down and, in some cases, stop the progression of Myopia.
Traditionally, glasses or contact lenses are worn to correct the amount of Myopia a patient has at the time of the exam. This is a great option for the patient’s current prescription but does not help with the detrition that will occur over the year until the next annual visit.
Our Doctors are proud to offer three alternative options:
– Overnight contact lenses – These are custom-made contact lenses that are worn while the child sleeps. During the night, the lens is gently reshaping the front surface of the eye. Once the lens is removed in the morning, the patient can see clearly and be able to continue their normal daytime activities. Although, the lenses must be worn every night to properly help your child.
– Daytime Soft Contact Lenses – This FDA-approved option called MiSight is a soft lense worn during the day much like traditional contact lenses. However, the unique optical design reduces the progression of Myopia when worn within the doctor’s specific guidelines.
– Prescription Eye drops or Atropine Therapy – This is a customized treatment plan for younger patients who may not be ready for contact lenses. Before bedtime each night, eye drops are put in the eyes. Glasses and/or contact lenses will still be required during the day, but the drops at night will help slow down the progression of Myopia.
You may still have questions or may not be sure which option will be best for your child.
Only you, the parents and our board-certified doctors can determine which treatment plan is best for your child. We will work together to get to know your child and their eyes before personalizing a plan.
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If you want to learn more about our optometrist practice - where we offer the area's most convenient hours, where we offer a variety of generous payment options, and where your and your child's healthy vision is our top priority - Visual Health Doctors of Optometry is here to serve you!
