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Childhood Myopia

Nearsightedness

Nearsightedness is a vision condition affecting 40 percent of the U.S. population. Some research supports the theory that nearsightedness is hereditary. Myopia that begins in childhood will increase and progress as a child ages. Early detection and treatment are crucial.

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Overview

What is myopia (nearsightedness)?

Nearsightedness, or myopia, is a vision condition in which close objects are seen clearly, but objects farther away appear blurred. Nearsightedness occurs if the eyeball is too long or the cornea, the clear front cover of the eye, has too much curvature. As a result, the light entering the eye isn’t focused correctly, and distant objects look blurred.

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Causes

What causes childhood myopia (nearsightedness)?

There are a number of risk factors associated with the onset and progression of myopia, including:

  • the age of the patient when myopia develops
  • not spending enough time outdoors
  • performing near work for long periods of time
  • having parents who are myopic

High Myopia

What is high myopia (nearsightedness)?

High Myopia is a rare inherited type of high-degree nearsightedness. It happens when your child’s eyeballs grow longer than they should or the cornea is too steep. High myopia is linked to eye diseases such as retinal detachments and glaucoma. Left untreated, high myopia complications can lead to blindness, so regular eye exams are critical.

Control

Myopia Control

Myopia is a correctable vision disorder using glasses and contact lenses. Treating the condition before the eyes have fully matured has been show to produce better outcomes.

A group of children huddle together in grass.

Treatment

What are the treatment options for childhood myopia (nearsightedness)?

Several myopia control treatments are available, and our doctors will help identify the best treatment. Treatment may include one or multiple combinations of the following:

  • Ortho-K Contact Lenses
  • Natural Vue Contact Lenses
  • MiSight® Myopia Management Program
  • Low Dose Atropine Eye Drops

Controlling the progression of myopia is limited to early forms of myopia in young children. As the eye continues to grow, the amount of myopia typically increases. As an individual matures, the changes in myopia slow because the human body is no longer growing at a rapid rate.

At Simon Eye, Dr. Jenna Korsan is certified for myopia control treatment and can provide consultation on the best treatment plan for your child.

Think you may have myopia?

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