If you are like most people, you probably think of nearsightedness, or myopia, as a minor nuisance. Something that requires eyeglasses or contact lenses to correct. But did you know that myopia can lead to major problems down the road? That is why our eye doctors at Child & Family Eyecare in Wichita prefer to diagnose and control myopia early on.
What is Myopia?
Nearsightedness, or myopia, is a condition where you can see objects clearly up close, but objects farther away appear blurry. Myopia is caused by an overly curved cornea that bends the light rays too much, causing them to focus in front of the retina instead of on it.
Symptoms of Myopia
The main symptom of myopia is that you are unable to see as well up close as people with normal vision. It makes it difficult to read or see things close-up. Other symptoms may include:
- Headaches
- Eye fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty focusing on near objects
What is Myopia Control?
Myopia control is a program designed to help reduce the progression of myopia. It typically involves a combination of eye care services, eyeglasses, or contact lenses. Your optometrist may recommend a few different types of myopia control. They include:
1. Distance-Center Multifocal Contact Lenses
Distance-center multifocal contact lenses are designed to help you focus on objects both near and far. They work by providing multiple zones of focus, which allow your eyes to shift and blend the different images helping you see clearly both up close and far away.
2. Orthokeratology
Orthokeratology, or Ortho-K, is a type of contact lens that uses a unique gas-permeable material to reshape your cornea temporarily. It helps improve your vision while you are not wearing the lenses during the day by wearing them as you sleep overnight.
3. Atropine Eye Drops
Atropine eye drops are a medication that helps slow the progression of myopia. They work by slightly blurring your vision, forcing your eyes to focus on distant objects. You only need to use the eye drops once per day and they typically provide long-term results.
4. Bifocal and Multifocal Eyeglasses
Bifocal and multifocal eyeglasses are also options for controlling myopia. These glasses have multiple viewing zones, allowing you to see clearly both close and far away.
Schedule an Eye Exam for Your Myopia Control
If you are concerned about your myopia or think your child may have this condition, contact Child & Family Eyecare to schedule an appointment with one of our eye doctors. We provide quality eye care for residents in and around Wichita, KS. Call our team today at (316) 721-8877 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.
