Have you noticed your child squinting to see distant objects? Or that their glasses prescription is changing too quickly? Childhood myopia is becoming more common and progressing faster than ever. Fortunately, there are proven treatments to control the progression of myopia and protect your child’s long-term eye health.
What is myopia, and why does it worsen in childhood?
Myopia causes distant objects to appear blurry. When it starts at a young age, it often progresses rapidly because the eye is still growing. Factors like genetics, limited time outdoors, and excessive screen use can speed up this process.
Risks of not treating childhood myopia
Uncontrolled myopia can lead to serious complications, including increased risk of retinal detachment, glaucoma, and myopic macular degeneration. It can also harm your child’s school performance and self-esteem.
How does myopia control work?
Today, there are effective methods that go beyond regular glasses:
- Soft multifocal contact lenses, like MiSight®, designed to reduce the signals that drive myopia progression.
- Low-dose atropine eye drops (0.01% to 0.05%), recommended in specific cases.
- Lifestyle adjustments, such as encouraging more outdoor time, taking regular screen breaks, and maintaining good posture.
These approaches can be used alone or combined, always under professional supervision.
When should you seek help?
Schedule an evaluation if you notice:
- Difficulty seeing the board at school
- Holding books or screens too close
- Frequent headaches or eye strain
- Rapid changes in glasses prescription
Ideally, myopia control should start as soon as myopia is diagnosed.
Our difference in myopia control in Gahanna
At Smallwood Eye Associates, we offer:
- Advanced technology for precise tracking of myopia progression
- Individualized follow-up, adjusting the plan as needed
- Parental guidance, keeping you involved at every step
- Community connection, caring for generations in Gahanna with compassion and dedication
We accept plans like VSP, EyeMed, and Spectera, making access to top-quality care easier.
Why choose our clinic for your child’s myopia control?
I’m Dr. Connor Smallwood, born and raised in Gahanna, and I’m proud to care for the vision of families in our city. Beyond technology and experience, we provide a welcoming environment that makes each appointment a moment of trust and learning.
Schedule your child’s myopia evaluation today
Don’t let myopia progress unchecked. Protect your child’s future with treatment that makes a difference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does myopia control really work?
Yes! Studies show that special contact lenses and atropine drops can reduce myopia progression by up to 60%.
Can myopia go away on its own?
No. Once it develops, myopia usually stabilizes only in adulthood, but treatment can slow its progression.
Are myopia control lenses uncomfortable?
No. They are designed to be comfortable and child-friendly.
How much does myopia control treatment cost?
Costs vary depending on the method used, but we accept plans that help reduce out-of-pocket expenses.How often should my child have follow-up visits?
We recommend check-ups every 4-6 months to adjust treatment and monitor progression.