You might wonder: can myopia be reversed? Unfortunately, there's no magic cure to undo myopia completely. However, there's good news! We can effectively manage myopia and, in the case of children, significantly slow down its progression. At Optometrists Clinic Inc., your go-to optometrist and eye care specialists in Edmonton since 1938, we understand parents' concerns when your child is diagnosed with nearsightedness, also known as myopia.
Understanding Myopia: Why Can't We Reverse It?
Myopia occurs when the eyeball elongates slightly more than usual. This causes light rays to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it, resulting in blurry distance vision. Genetics and environmental factors can contribute to myopia development. While the eyeball shape can't be permanently changed, we can intervene to prevent further elongation and manage existing blurriness.
Myopia Control for Children: Slowing Down the Progression
While complete reversal isn't possible, myopia control strategies offer a proactive approach for children. By implementing these methods early, we can significantly slow down myopia progression, improve your child's vision, and potentially reduce their future risk of certain eye diseases. Here are some effective myopia control options available at Optometrists Clinic Inc.:
Specially designed eyeglasses: Certain lenses, like those with peripheral defocus technology, can help manage myopia progression. They create a broader zone of clear vision, potentially slowing eyeball elongation.
Soft contact lenses: Specific soft contact lenses, like multifocal or orthokeratology (ortho-k) lenses, can also help control myopia. Ortho-k lenses are worn overnight and gently reshape the cornea, providing clear vision during the day without needing daytime lenses.
Atropine eye drops: Low-dose eye drops are a medication option for myopia control. Atropine works by relaxing the focusing muscles in the eye, which can slow down eyeball growth. However, it's important to note that atropine may have side effects like light sensitivity, so discussing this option with your eye doctor at Optometrists Clinic Inc. is crucial.
Lifestyle changes: Studies suggest that spending more time outdoors (around 2 hours a day) may help reduce the risk of myopia progression in children. Additionally, encouraging good screen habits, like taking regular breaks and maintaining proper screen distance, can be beneficial.
Schedule a Myopia Control Appointment for Your Child Today
At Optometrists Clinic Inc., we understand the importance of proactive eye care for children. If your child has been diagnosed with myopia or you're concerned about their nearsightedness, please schedule an appointment with one of our experienced optometrists at our five convenient locations in Edmonton, Leduc, and Westlock. During the appointment, we will discuss your child's needs and explore the best myopia control options. It is important to remember that while we can't reverse myopia, we can effectively manage it and give your child the best chance for clear vision.
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