Myopia control is one of the top concerns for parents, eye doctors, and patients alike, but what are the options for myopia management? Do atropine eye drops work?
Atropine eye drops have been shown to be an effective solution for controlling the progression of myopia in children.
There are several myopia control methods available, including atropine eye drops, that can help control the progression of myopia and provide clear vision. During an eye exam, we can help you determine which options are suited for your child’s eye health.
Myopia & Children
Myopia is a condition where distant objects appear blurry because the shape of your eye causes light to focus in front of your retina instead of directly on it. It happens when your eye is too long or your cornea is too steep. For clear vision, the light needs to land directly on your retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye.
The cause of myopia is not fully understood, but studies show that it may be due to a combination of genetics and eye usage habits. Spending more time doing near work, such as reading or using computers, and less time outdoors is believed to increase the likelihood of developing myopia.
Myopia can begin to affect children at different ages as their eyes grow. It commonly affects school-aged children but can also affect children as young as 6 to 8 years old. Children who develop myopia at a younger age are at higher risk of acquiring high myopia because their eyes have more time to grow.
High myopia can lead to serious eye conditions, such as glaucoma, cataracts, retinal tears and detachment, and myopic macular degeneration.
Postponing or slowing the rate of myopia progression can prevent children from developing high myopia. Fortunately, there are several effective methods for controlling myopia in children.
A Look into Myopia Control Methods
Myopia is a condition that can worsen over time, which is why controlling myopia progression is crucial, especially for children whose eyes are still growing. Several myopia control methods can help slow down and prevent myopia progression.
Orthokeratology Contact Lenses
Orthokeratology (ortho-k) is a type of contact lens that can help manage myopia progression. Ortho-k lenses are rigid gas-permeable lenses used to reshape the cornea while sleeping. By molding the cornea, ortho-k lenses can temporarily reduce the eye’s refractive error and help slow down myopia progression. These lenses are worn overnight and designed so the user can see clearly without using glasses or regular contact lenses during the day.
Ortho-k can be a safe and effective method of myopia control for children as young as 6.
Atropine Eye Drops
Another effective method of controlling myopia progression is using atropine eye drops. Atropine is a medication that relaxes the muscles in the eye and dilates the pupil, which can improve vision. Studies have shown that using low-dose atropine drops (0.01%) once a day can be effective for controlling myopia progression in children.
Peripheral Defocus Contact Lenses
Peripheral defocus contact lenses are a type of soft contact lens that contains multiple focal distances in one lens.
These lenses have a clear center and surrounding rings of varying focal distances. The rings provide peripheral defocus, which can help slow the eye’s growth and prevent myopia progression. These lenses are worn during the day like regular contact lenses and are suitable for people of all ages.
Research has shown that peripheral defocus contact lenses can effectively slow myopia progression.
Manage Myopia Progression with the Help of Total Vision Solana Beach
Myopia and the potential need for children to wear glasses are something that all parents worry about. Fortunately, atropine eye drops have been proven to be an effective method for controlling myopia progression in children, providing a safe and alternate treatment option for myopia management.
At Total Vision Solana Beach, we’re dedicated to supporting your family’s vision with comprehensive eye care. Reach out to us to learn more about how we can help your child see clearly.
