Myopia Management

Myopia is a refractive error that occurs when the eye's lens or cornea bends light in a way that causes images to focus in front of the retina, rather than directly on it. This results in blurred distant vision, while close-up objects remain clear. Myopia is often discovered in childhood and can progress over time, leading to increasingly blurred distance vision.

What Causes Myopia to Develop?

The exact causes of myopia are not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some of the leading contributors to the development and progression of myopia include:

• Genetics: Myopia often runs in families, suggesting a hereditary component.

• Excessive near-work activities: Spending too much time on activities that require close-up focus, such as reading, using digital devices, or playing video games, can increase the risk of myopia development.

• Lack of outdoor time: Studies have shown that children who spend more time outdoors have a lower risk of developing myopia.

• Rapid eye growth: Myopia is often associated with the rapid growth of the eye during childhood, leading to an elongated eyeball.
  
  

Signs and Symptoms of Myopia

The signs and symptoms of myopia include:

• Blurry vision when looking at distant objects

• Difficulty seeing road signs, the board in classrooms, or objects in the distance

• Squinting to see clearly

• Eye strain or fatigue, especially after activities that require focusing on distant objects for extended periods

• Headaches, particularly after tasks that involve focusing on distant objects
  
  

If you or your child is experiencing these symptoms, it's important to schedule an eye exam with an optometrist for a comprehensive vision assessment. Early detection and management of myopia are essential for maintaining optimal eye health and clear vision.

The Importance of Regular Eye Exams for Early Detection

Regular eye exams are crucial for the early detection and management of myopia. Comprehensive eye exams can identify the presence and progression of myopia, allowing your optometrist to develop a personalized treatment plan. By catching myopia early, you can take proactive steps to slow its progression and protect your long-term vision.

During a comprehensive eye exam, your eye doctor will use various diagnostic tools and techniques to assess your vision and determine the presence and severity of myopia. This may include:

• Visual acuity testing: Measuring your ability to see clearly at different distances.

• Refraction assessment: Determining the precise refractive error in your eyes.

• Slit-lamp examination: Inspecting the front of your eye using a specialized microscope.

• Dilated eye exam: Evaluating the internal structures of your eye, including the retina.
  
  

Your eye care professional will then use this information to develop a personalized treatment plan to manage your myopia.

Myopia Management Options

Myopia management is an essential aspect of maintaining good eye health. Depending on the severity of your condition and your individual needs, your optometrist may recommend one or more of treatment options.

MiSight contact lenses are a groundbreaking solution for myopia management. These specialized lenses are designed to slow the progression of myopia in children aged 8 to 12 years old. MiSight lenses work by creating a specific optical effect that helps to control the elongation of the eye, thereby slowing the progression of myopia.

Atropine eye drops are a pharmaceutical approach to myopia management. These drops work by temporarily paralyzing the focusing mechanism of the eye, which can help to slow the progression of myopia.

What Sets Kew Gardens Family EyeCare Apart

At Kew Gardens Family EyeCare, we are dedicated to providing our patients with the highest quality eye care and the latest advancements in myopia management. Our experienced optometrists are committed to working with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique vision needs and concerns.

We understand that your time is valuable, which is why we strive to keep our waiting times short and our appointment scheduling efficient. When you choose Kew Gardens Family EyeCare for your myopia management, you can expect to be seen promptly and receive the personalized attention you deserve.

Take the first step towards better vision and schedule your appointment with Kew Gardens Family EyeCare today. We are dedicated to helping you manage your myopia and protect your long-term eye health.