Current Strategies for Myopia Management: Options and Approaches

Myopia is a refractive error that affects the eyes' ability to focus on distant objects. It is a prevalent condition, with a significant increase in its prevalence over the past few decades. Myopia occurs when the eyeball is too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This results in blurred distance vision and clear near vision.
 

What Are the Causes and Symptoms of Myopia?

The exact causes of myopia are still not fully understood. However, research suggests that both genetic and environmental factors play a role. Genetic predisposition can increase the likelihood of developing myopia, especially if one or both parents have the condition. Environmental factors such as excessive near work, lack of outdoor activities, and prolonged screen time may also contribute to the development and progression of myopia.
 

The symptoms of myopia may vary from person to person but typically include blurry distance vision, difficulty seeing objects far away, eyestrain, and headaches. Children with myopia may have trouble seeing the board at school or complain of frequent eye fatigue.
 

The Importance of Myopia Management

Proactive myopia management is crucial to prevent the progression of myopia and reduce the risk of associated complications. Although myopia cannot be cured, various strategies can help manage its progression effectively. It is essential to address myopia early on, especially in children, as it tends to worsen during the growing years.
 

Managing myopia offers several benefits. By controlling its progression, individuals can reduce their dependency on corrective lenses and maintain better visual acuity.
 

Additionally, myopia management can help lower the risk of developing serious eye conditions in the future. Research suggests that each diopter of myopia progression increases the risk of developing sight-threatening conditions by approximately 40%.
 

Myopia Management Options and Approaches

Several options are available for managing myopia, depending on the individual's age, lifestyle, and preferences. These options include:
 

• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) Lenses: Ortho-K lenses are specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses that are worn overnight to temporarily reshape the cornea. This can provide clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or contact lenses. Studies have shown that Ortho-K lenses may help slow the progression of myopia.
• Multifocal Contact Lenses: Multifocal contact lenses are designed with different powers across the lens to correct vision at various distances. These lenses have been found to be effective in reducing myopia progression in some children.
• Atropine Eye Drops: Low-dose atropine eye drops have been used to slow down the progression of myopia in children. Atropine works by dilating the pupil and temporarily relaxing the focusing muscles on the eye.
• Behavioral Interventions: Encouraging outdoor activities and reducing near work, such as prolonged reading or screen time, has been associated with a reduced risk of myopia progression. Implementing the 20-20-20 rule, where one takes a 20-second break every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away, can help alleviate eye strain and reduce the risk of myopia progression.

Optometrists play a crucial role in myopia management. They are trained to diagnose and monitor myopia progression, prescribe appropriate corrective lenses, and provide guidance on lifestyle modifications. Regular eye examinations are essential, especially for children, as they allow for early detection of myopia and timely intervention.
 

Taking Proactive Steps for Myopia Management

Managing myopia is a crucial aspect of maintaining optimal eye health. Understanding the causes and symptoms of myopia, along with its prevalence, helps individuals recognize the importance of early intervention. By taking proactive steps and seeking professional guidance from optometrists, individuals can effectively manage myopia and reduce the risk of associated complications.
 

Schedule a comprehensive eye examination with our optometrist to discuss the best myopia management strategy for you or your child, visit De Anza Vision Center in our San Jose, California, office. Please call (408) 446-5533 to book an appointment today.