Myopia Control

Myopia Management

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a common refractive error that affects the way your eyes focus light. Myopia typically develops in childhood and can worsen as you grow older. At Burbank Family Optometry, we understand the importance of managing myopia to prevent its progression and reduce the risk of long-term eye health issues.

Factors that Contribute to Myopia

Myopia is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some of the primary contributors to the development of myopia include:

• Genetics: If one or both of your parents have myopia, you have a higher risk of developing the condition. Certain genetic variations can influence the shape and growth of the eye.

• Excessive Near Work: Spending prolonged periods of time engaged in close-up activities, such as reading, using digital devices, or playing video games, can strain your eyes and contribute to the progression of myopia.

• Lack of Outdoor Time: Studies have shown that spending less time outdoors and more time indoors can increase the risk of myopia development, especially in children.

Understanding the potential causes of myopia can help you take proactive steps to manage your vision health and prevent the condition from worsening over time.

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Myopia

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of myopia is crucial for early detection and effective management. Some of the common indicators of nearsightedness include:

• Blurred vision at a distance

• Squinting or straining to see

• Headaches or eye strain

• Difficulty seeing at night

• Frequent need to move closer to see

If you or your child experience any of these symptoms, it's essential to schedule an eye exam with your optometrist. Early detection and proper management of myopia can help prevent the condition from worsening.

The Importance of Regular Eye Exams for Early Detection of Myopia

Regular eye exams are crucial for the early detection and management of myopia. Your optometrist can perform a comprehensive examination to measure the curvature of your cornea, the length of your eye, and the overall refractive power of your eyes. This information can help them determine the extent of your myopia and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

During your eye exam, your optometrist may use the following tests to assess your vision and the health of your eyes:

• Visual acuity test: This test measures your ability to see clearly at different distances, using an eye chart or other visual aids.

• Refraction test: This test determines the precise refractive error in your eyes, which helps your optometrist prescribe the appropriate corrective lenses.

• Slit-lamp examination: This test uses a specialized microscope to examine the front of your eye, including the cornea, iris, and lens, for any signs of disease or abnormalities.

• Dilated eye exam: Your optometrist may dilate your pupils to get a better view of the back of your eye, including the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels.

By scheduling regular eye exams, you can ensure that any changes in your vision or the development of myopia are detected and addressed early on.
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The Risk of Untreated Myopia

If left untreated, myopia can lead to a range of serious eye health issues and complications. Myopia is associated with a higher risk of developing conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, retinal detachment, and myopic macular degeneration, which can all potentially lead to vision loss.

Uncorrected myopia can significantly impact your daily activities, such as driving, reading, and participating in sports or hobbies. This can lead to a decreased quality of life and can affect your overall well-being. At Burbank Family Optometry, we offer a comprehensive approach to myopia management tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Ortho-K for Myopia Management

Orthokeratology, or Ortho-K, is a non-surgical treatment option that can be highly effective in managing myopia. This approach involves wearing specialized rigid gas-permeable contact lenses during the night (retainers), which temporarily reshape the curvature of your cornea to improve your vision. The Ortho-K lenses are designed to gently flatten the central part of your cornea, which helps to redirect the focus of light directly onto the retina.

One of the key benefits of Ortho-K is its ability to slow the progression of myopia, especially in children and adolescents. By reshaping the cornea, Ortho-K can help reduce the elongation of the eye, which is a primary factor in the development and worsening of myopia.

Additionally, Ortho-K lenses allow you to enjoy clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who participate in sports, outdoor activities, or professions that require unobstructed vision.

MiSight® 1 Day Soft Contact Lenses for Managing Myopia

In addition to Ortho-K, another innovative solution for myopia management is the use of MiSight® 1 day soft contact lenses. These specialized lenses are designed to slow the progression of myopia in children and adolescents. MiSight® 1 day lenses work by creating a unique optical design that influences the focus of light entering the eye. This helps to reduce the elongation of the eye.

One of the key advantages of MiSight® 1 day lenses is their convenience. As daily disposable lenses, they can be worn comfortably throughout the day and then discarded, eliminating the need for cleaning and storage solutions. Additionally, these lenses provide clear, comfortable vision, allowing children to participate in their daily activities without the limitations of traditional corrective lenses.

Get Started with Burbank Family Optometry Today

At Burbank Family Optometry, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized eye care services to all our patients. Dr. Craig Hoeft, Dr. Ann Ngo, Dr. Lusine Vardanyan, or Linda Pang will conduct a comprehensive eye exam to accurately assess the extent of myopia and identify any underlying factors that may be contributing to its development or progression. We will work with you to develop a personalized myopia management plan that addresses your child’s unique vision needs and lifestyle.

If your child is experiencing symptoms of myopia, contact Burbank Family Optometry today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help manage your child's myopia.