Myopia Treatment
Slow the progression of short-sightedness.
What is Myopia Control?
Myopia, or shortsightedness, is a common condition where the main symptom is blurred distance vision. The prevalence of myopia is increasing worldwide. In addition to the inconvenience of a lifetime of blurred vision, it carries the additional risk of eye diseases and vision loss in later life.
How can myopia be managed?
Methods that have gained support in the control of myopia:
MiyoSmart lenses in spectacles, which enable focus in both the central and mid-peripheral vision.
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) which involves the use of individually designed contact lenses which gently mould the shape of the cornea.
Soft daily disposable contact lenses that are specifically designed to have a myopia controlling effect.
Eyedrops with Atropine. Low dose atropine eyedrops can be used to slow the progression of myopia with minimal side effects.
When, and how often, is an eye test required for Myopia Control?
Myopia progression can be slowed or halted in children and teenagers. Regular eye tests for your children are recommended from at least 4 years of age, or earlier if you have concerns.
For all eye tests, you can book online through our website. For any new patients, please complete the Welcome to For Eyes form (links under Eye Tests page) and either email to the practice at reception@foreyes.com.au or bring it with you on the day of the appointment.
Myopia Control FAQs
-
Myopia is becoming more common in children around the world – the prevalence among Australian 12-year-olds doubled between 2005 and 2011 (source: https://www.mykidsvision.org/en-us). The increased use of electronic devices by children, and less outdoor activities, are all contributing to this trend.
Myopia in kids tends to progress or develop throughout childhood. Higher levels of myopia are associated with higher eye disease risks in adulthood. If your child already wears contact lenses or glasses, you can do something to stop their vision worsening. If they currently don't require any vision correction, you can assess their risk of developing myopia
-
In younger children, myopia progresses more quickly because their eyes are growing at a faster rate, leading to higher levels of myopia, stronger glasses and more eye health risks.
Adult onset myopia usually occurs as an adaptation to fatigued eye focusing muscles due to a significant increase in close work, such as university studies.
-
The first step is to have regular eye examinations for your children so their risk of developing myopia is assessed. Catching early signs of myopia before it fully develops can help slow onset and progression.
In addition, the following is recommended by our optometrists:
• Children should not spend more than two hours a day – in addition to school time – on close work such as reading, homework or screen-time
• When using a computer, ensure it is properly positioned to avoid eye strain and take regular breaks, even if that is looking up and across the room.
• Smart phones are popular for children and teenagers’ texting, social media, reading and games - but too much screen time is linked to myopia, can cause dry eyes, and increase the risk of eye damage and diseases in adulthood.
• The blue-white bright light from tablets and phones can affect sleep patterns. Therefore, these devices should be avoided before bedtime.
• Outdoor sport and play of at least 1-2 hours a day can reduce the risk of myopia.