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A Guide to Myopia Control in North San Antonio

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Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a common vision problem that causes distant objects to appear blurry while close ones remain clear. Statistics show that myopia rates are rising exponentially globally, which makes the need for effective myopia control strategies increasingly significant. That’s why at Custom Eye Care in North San Antonio, we offer various methods to manage and slow down the progression of myopia.

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Understanding Myopia: A Closer Look at Nearsightedness

Myopia is a refractive error that occurs when the eyeball is too long or the cornea has too much curvature. This error causes light entering the eye to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it, resulting in blurred distance vision. Although glasses and contact lenses provide clear vision for those with nearsightedness, they don’t exactly address the eyeball's elongation, which often worsens over time and causes vision to become less clear.

The Rising Tide of Myopia: Why Myopia Control Matters

Myopia rates have been steadily increasing, especially among younger populations. Factors such as increased screen time, reduced outdoor activities, and genetic predisposition contribute to the surge. This eye condition affects visual acuity (how clearly you can see). It raises the risk of eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal detachment later in life. Myopia control is essential for mitigating these risks and preserving long-term eye health, especially in children and adolescents whose myopia is yet to stabilize.

Methods of Myopia Control: A Multifaceted Approach

  • Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Ortho-k involves using specially designed contact lenses worn overnight to reshape the cornea temporarily. This reshaping allows for clearer vision during the day without needing glasses or contact lenses. Ortho-k has shown promise in slowing down myopia progression, making it a popular choice among children.
  • Atropine Eye Drops: Atropine eye drops, in low concentrations, have demonstrated efficacy in controlling myopia progression. These drops dilate the pupil and temporarily paralyze the eye's focusing mechanism. While effective, using atropine requires careful monitoring due to potential side effects, such as sensitivity to light and near-vision blur.
  • Multifocal Contact Lenses: Multifocal contact lenses have varying prescriptions to address distance and near vision. Studies suggest these lenses help slow down myopia progression, offering a convenient option for individuals uncomfortable with overnight ortho-k lenses.

Other methods of myopia control include encouraging increased outdoor time, also referred to as the "bright light" strategy, associated with reduced myopia progression in children. Additionally, limiting near work and excessive screen time can also slow the progression of nearsightedness.

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Schedule an Eye Exam in North San Antonio to Screen for Myopia

With myopia control and various methods available, individuals and parents can work with eye care professionals like Custom Eye Care in North San Antonio to determine the most suitable approach.