Managing myopia - what are the options?
Managing myopia - what are the options?
Myopia (or short-sightedness) is increasing globally. Research shows that by 2050, half the world’s population will be affected by the eye condition. The prevalence of myopia in the UK has doubled since the 1960s. Causal factors include spending more time indoors in front of electronic devices and doing near tasks, family history and ethnicity. Detecting myopia early in childhood can improve a child's learning and performance. Reducing the progression of myopia can reduce the risk later in life of developing conditions such as a retinal detachment and myopic maculopathy, a condition where the light-sensitive lining of the eye (the retina) becomes very stretched and degenerates. There are several ways in which myopia can be managed. Optometrists generally refer to these methods as ‘myopia control.’ These include spectacles for myopia management, soft contact lenses and orthokeratology. Below, we’ve laid out more details on the options for managing myopia offered by Haine & Smith. We always recommend that if you are concerned about your or your children’s vision, to schedule an appointment with your optometrist.
Spectacles for myopia management:
These are specialist glasses, which help to slow the progression of myopia. The lenses use peripheral defocus technology to help slow axial eye growth (the length of the eyeball) and can be prescribed by your optometrist. The prescription is rechecked at regular intervals so that adjustments can be made to the prescription when necessary to ensure they continue to work effectively. Research has shown this option can slow myopia progression in children by up to 59%.
Soft contact lenses:
Depending on your child’s lifestyle or preference, they may wish to opt for myopia controlling daily wear contact lenses. They move with your eyes and are less restrictive than a pair of frames. They don’t break as a spectacle frame can, are easier if it’s raining and you throw them away after a single use. Contact lenses are a great option for children with an active lifestyle or who are keen on sport. Learning how to insert and remove them can feel a bit fiddly to begin with, but your optician will show you what to do and help you to get the hang of it.
Another important factor to consider is to switch off screens:
Undeniably, our dependence on electronic devices has increased, and with new advances in technology this is only set to escalate. Having time away from screens and embracing more of the ‘great outdoors’ will not only improve their eye health, but also physical and mental health too.
It could be that as your child grows older, their preferred myopia managing method changes. If you would like to discuss any of the above options, please contact us, and we can help you decide on which is the best fit for you and your family.