Myopia, also called nearsightedness or shortsightedness, is the inability to see objects from far away. Myopia 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. This is the most common vision issue and will most likely begin developing during childhood. Symptoms of Myopia include eyestrain, squinting, fatigue, and headaches. If you suspect your child may have Myopia, contact us for effective Myopia management in Springfield, VA.
Myopia does not just affect your child’s vision. It can also increase 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.
If left unmanaged, Myopia will progress and in many cases progress quickly. There is no cure, so early detection, intervention, and treatment can help slow down and, in some cases, stop the progression of Myopia.
Traditionally glasses and/or contact lenses are worn to correct the amount of Myopia a patient has at the time of the exam. This is beneficial 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 proudly offer three alternative options:
– Overnight contact lenses – These are custom-made contact lenses that are worn while your 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 continue with normal daytime activities. While prescribed, it is crucial that these lenses are worn every night.
– Daytime Soft Contact Lenses – These FDA-approved lenses called MiSight are soft lenses worn during the day much like traditional contact lenses. What makes these lenses different, is that the unique optical design reduces the progression of Myopia.
– Prescription Eye drops or Atropine Therapy – This is a custom treatment plan for younger patients who may not be ready for contact lenses. Eye drops are put in the eyes before bedtime. Glasses and/or contact lenses will still be required during the day, but the drops at night will be slowing 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!
