Understanding Myopia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Understanding Myopia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Myopia is a common vision condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the eye grows too long or the cornea becomes too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This leads to difficulty seeing distant objects clearly, while close-up vision remains unaffected. At Gun Barrel Family Eyecare & Dry Eye Center, we understand the challenges myopia presents and offer several treatment options to help manage this condition effectively.

Causes of Myopia

The exact cause of myopia is still being studied, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. If one or both parents are nearsighted, there is a higher likelihood that their child will develop the condition. Increased screen time, limited outdoor activities, and prolonged near work (such as reading or using digital devices) have also been associated with the development and progression of myopia in children.

Common Symptoms of Myopia

The primary symptom of myopia is blurred vision when looking at distant objects. Additional signs may include:

•          Squinting to see clearly

•          Frequent headaches

•          Eye strain, especially after long periods of focusing on distant objects

•          Difficulty seeing road signs while driving, especially at night

•          Children may struggle in school due to an inability to see the whiteboard or distant classroom materials

If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to schedule a comprehensive eye exam with Gun Barrel Family Eyecare & Dry Eye Center. Early detection can help prevent further progression and maintain optimal eye health.

Why Managing Myopia Is Important

Managing myopia is not just about correcting blurry vision; it’s about protecting long-term eye health. Progressive or high myopia increases the risk of developing serious eye conditions later in life, such as glaucoma, cataracts, retinal detachment, and myopic maculopathy. By addressing myopia early and effectively, we can help reduce these risks and promote better eye health for life.

Treatment Options for Myopia

There are several effective ways to manage myopia and slow its progression, especially in children. Our clinic offers advanced treatments designed to not only correct vision but also address the underlying causes of myopia progression.

1. Ortho-K (Orthokeratology)

Ortho-K is a non-surgical treatment that involves wearing specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses overnight. These lenses gently reshape the cornea while you sleep, temporarily correcting myopia so that you can enjoy clear vision throughout the day without the need for glasses or contacts. Ortho-K is particularly effective for children, as it helps slow down the progression of myopia, reducing the risk of high myopia and related complications later in life.

2. Atropine Eye Drops

Atropine eye drops are a low-dose medication that can be prescribed to children to slow the progression of myopia. Although atropine has been used for various medical purposes for decades, recent studies have shown that when used in low concentrations, it can significantly reduce the rate of myopia progression in children. This treatment is ideal for children who are not candidates for Ortho-K or prefer a less invasive option. The drops are typically applied before bedtime and are well-tolerated with minimal side effects.

3. Dual-Focus Soft Contact Lenses

Dual-focus soft contact lenses are another excellent option for managing myopia, especially in children. These lenses have concentric zones that provide both distance correction and myopia control, helping to slow the progression of nearsightedness. Studies have shown that dual-focus lenses can significantly reduce the rate of myopia progression, making them a popular choice for parents looking to protect their child’s vision. These lenses are worn during the day and offer the added benefit of clear vision without the need for glasses.

Schedule an Eye Exam with Gun Barrel Family Eyecare & Dry Eye Center Today

At Gun Barrel Family Eyecare & Dry Eye Center, we are committed to providing comprehensive myopia management solutions tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Whether you are exploring Ortho-K, atropine eye drops, or dual-focus contact lenses for your child, we are here to guide you through the process and ensure the best possible outcomes.

Schedule an eye exam with Gun Barrel Family Eyecare & Dry Eye Center and take the first step towards managing myopia and protecting your family’s vision. Contact our office in Gun Barrel City, Texas, by calling (903) 418-3300 to book an appointment today.