Myopia is a refractive error that usually occurs in childhood. It has no cure, but there are ways to stop the worsening of the condition. Myopia control or management can slow the progression of nearsightedness. It is most effective in children, but adults can also access the treatment. It can prevent the development of high myopia, which can cause sight-threatening issues later in life. 

How Myopia Control Works 

Axial eye elongation is the most common cause of myopia progression. It occurs when the eyeball grows too long as the child develops. Myopia control helps halt or slow the elongation. There are several myopia control options.

The doctor can recommend one option or a combination of treatments. Myopia progression can also be due to prolonged up-close work, such as hours spent on the computer. The best option depends on various factors, such as eye health.

Myopia Control Eye Drops

Doctors have used special eye drops to control myopia for years. Low-dose atropine eye drops are effective and produce consistent results. Traditionally, the medication helps relax the eye muscles to treat inflammatory conditions or diagnose strabismus. 

When used for myopia control, atropine can slow myopia for up to three years. The medication is most effective when used during the peak of the progression. 

Myopia Control Contact Lenses

Special lens designs change how light focuses on the patient’s retina. They are different from regular contacts that help correct myopia. The special lenses focus power differently in various sections. 

The center has full focus power, while the periphery areas have less power. It helps ensure that light that gets into the eye focuses on the front part of the retina. It is known as peripheral myopic defocus. Research shows that this form of focus can stop eye elongation. Studies show the lenses can slow myopia progression by almost 60%.

Myopia Control Eyeglasses 

Advances in technology have led to the development of myopia-control eyeglasses. The new eyeglass lens designs can slow myopia progression by over 60%. Like myopia control contacts, they create peripheral myopic defocus, slowing eye elongation. 

Sometimes, eye doctors prescribe multifocal lenses to slow myopia progression. While they are slightly effective, they do not work as well as myopia control eyeglasses. 

Orthokeratology (Ortho-k)

Most eye specialists agree that ortho-k is the most effective way to stop or slow myopia progression in children. The control technique involves the use of night-use contact lenses. The specialized rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses are worn overnight and temporarily change the shape of the cornea. 

The new shape creates peripheral myopic defocus. After removing the lenses in the morning, the patient can enjoy improved vision all day. Over time, ortho-k can reduce eyeball elongation. An eye doctor will recommend the best control method based on the child’s age, eye condition, and level of myopia. 

Early detection of myopia can ensure effective control. Routine eye exams at an early age can detect myopia and its progression. Most kids do not realize they are nearsighted, making routine exams vital.

For more on myopia control strategies to slow nearsightedness progression, visit Montebello Optometry, Eye Clinic & Dry Eye Center at our Montebello, California, office. Call (323) 888-9111 to schedule an appointment today.