Myopia is a fairly common eye condition, and its prevalence has grown steadily in the past 40 years. Some experts would prefer to identify it as an epidemic because of the steady growth of the numbers, which are expected to reach over four billion in 2050. 

The condition's cause is not well known, but the changes that occur are well understood. The eye usually elongates more than usual, and the cornea bulges and steepens. These changes cause distant objects to become blurry, and close-up ones remain clear. 

What Is Myopia Control?

The constant worsening of myopia is called myopia progression. If it is not managed or controlled, it can lead to worse eye conditions. Myopia control is any strategy or step an eye doctor takes to slow the progression. As eye doctors keep researching to understand the condition better, they are developing more effective strategies. Some of the strategies they have developed so far are the following:

Special Eyeglasses for Myopia

Many use glasses to correct visual errors, but eyeglasses do not slow the progression in children. Eyeglasses for myopia control correct vision and slow the progression of the condition. 

Unlike single vision eyeglasses, these have various powers scattered across the entire lens by utilizing lenslets. The special eyeglasses with 1 mm lenslets across the primary lens have strong scientific evidence proving their efficacy. 

Another unique eyeglass design for myopia control is the use of light diffusion. While these are effective, they only work well for children older than eight or younger than 13, according to the research. 

Soft Contacts for Myopia Control

Soft contact lenses for myopia control feature a design different from single vision lenses, and they are effective. They are either daily disposable lenses or can last up to a month. Daily disposable ones are safe for children. 

Several options exist for soft contacts for myopia control, but some are more effective than others. The decision on which one to use will depend on factors like eye health and prescription. 

Ortho-k

These lenses, also known as orthokeratology, are the most popular of all myopia control options. They are rigid gas permeable lenses you wear at night, giving you near perfect vision during the day. They gently alter the shape of your cornea as you sleep, which is how they improve vision. They effectively slow myopia progression, with much literature supporting their use. 

Atropine Eye Drops

This is the only medication proven to slow myopia progression, but it works better with eyeglasses or ortho-k. The research about this option keeps changing, but the consensus is that they slow progression. 

What Option Is Best for My Child?

To know which one is the most ideal for your child, you must talk to your eye doctor so they can examine your child's vision. Some options work well for more severe forms of myopia, while others work for milder forms. Also, some are more expensive than others, affecting your child's life differently.

For more on choosing the best myopia control method for your child, visit Skowron Eye Care at our office in Elmhurst, Illinois. Call (630) 834-6244​​​​​​​ to book an appointment today.