Myopia Awareness Week: Advanced Treatments in New Holland

Myopia Awareness Week is an annual campaign dedicated to educating the public about myopia, which is commonly known as nearsightedness. The purpose of this week is to highlight the importance of early detection, effective management, and the latest treatments available to slow the progression of myopia.

At Optometric Associates in New Holland, we offer personalized management plans, including Orthokeratology (Ortho-K), MiSight® contact lenses, and atropine drops therapy.

Myopia: Definition and Causes

Myopia is a refractive error where the eye is longer than normal, or the cornea is too curved, resulting in light focusing in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This causes blurred distance vision while near vision remains crisp.

Nearsightedness typically begins in childhood and can progress throughout the teenage years and even into adulthood if not properly managed. Children who have moderate to severe myopia are at a significantly higher risk of developing serious eye diseases down the line, including macular degeneration, retinal detachment, glaucoma, and cataracts. That’s why slowing myopia progression is crucial for every nearsighted child’s eye health.

Risk factors for becoming nearsighted include:

• Genetics: Having one or two myopic parents increases the risk.
• Prolonged Near Work: Activities such as reading, studying, or using digital devices for extended periods.
• Limited Outdoor Time: Studies show that children who spend more time outdoors are less likely to develop the eye elongation associated with nearsightedness.

Our Myopia Control Methods

Effective management of myopia involves a combination of treatments and lifestyle adjustments aimed at slowing its progression and correcting vision. Here are some of the leading treatments available:

1. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Ortho-K involves wearing specially designed rigid gas-permeable contact lenses overnight. These lenses temporarily reshape the cornea, providing clear vision during the day without needing glasses or contact lenses. They are recommended for children and adolescents, making it a leading treatment option.
2. MiSight Contact Lenses: MiSight lenses are daily disposable contact lenses designed specifically for myopia control. These multifocal lenses increase eye focus and prevent eyesight from worsening by focusing light correctly.
3. Atropine Drops Therapy: Low-dose atropine eye drops have been shown to significantly slow the progression of myopia in children. These drops are typically used once daily.

Why Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) is a Leading Treatment

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) stands out as a leading treatment for nearsightedness due to its dual benefits of providing clear daytime vision and effectively slowing its progression. Here are some reasons why Ortho-K is highly recommended:

• Non-Invasive: Ortho-K is a non-surgical, reversible treatment that does not permanently alter the eye’s structure.
• Daytime Freedom: By wearing the lenses overnight, patients can enjoy clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or contact lenses.
• Effective: Numerous studies have demonstrated that Ortho-K slowed myopia progression in children and adolescents.
• Convenience: The overnight lens-wearing schedule fits easily into daily routines, making it a convenient option for busy families.

Schedule a Myopia Consultation in New Holland

Visit Optometric Associates in New Holland to learn more about myopia management and discover the best treatment options for you or your child.