Myopia, or nearsightedness, is becoming more prevalent among children, with one in three now affected. But can correcting visual habits help slow its progression? This blog explores whether myopia can still worsen despite correcting poor visual habits.
Is your child myopic? Project Eyecare Optometry is at the forefront of addressing this growing concern through comprehensive myopia management strategies. Schedule an appointment at our Mission Viejo practice to learn more about how we can help.
Understanding Myopia Development
Myopia development is intricate and begins before visual symptoms manifest. Research indicates that the eye undergoes accelerated axial growth one to two years before myopia becomes clinically evident. During this period, compensatory mechanisms within the eye attempt to counteract the elongation, including flattening the anterior surface of the lens. However, these mechanisms eventually exhaust themselves, leading to the establishment of myopic refractive status.
The Influence of Age on Myopia Progression
Understanding the age at which myopia sets in is crucial in predicting its progression. Studies suggest that the earlier myopia occurs and the faster it progresses, the less responsive it is to interventions aimed at improving visual habits. This highlights the importance of early detection and intervention in younger individuals to mitigate the severity of myopia progression.
Risk Factors for Developing Myopia
Several risk factors influence the development of myopia. Genetic predispositions play a role, meaning if parents have nearsightedness, their children are more likely to develop myopia.
Environmental factors also play a significant role. Extensive close-up activities like reading or digital devices can contribute to the condition. Additionally, there is a link between limited exposure to outdoor activities and higher rates of myopia. Poor lighting conditions and certain lifestyle habits also increase the risk of developing myopia in children and adolescents.
The Challenge of Completely Eliminating These Factors
Correcting visual habits like excessive near-work, limited outdoor time, and poor lighting is crucial for managing myopia. Despite efforts to change these habits, completely removing causative factors is challenging, which continues to pose a risk for myopia progression.
Early intervention remains key in slowing myopia progression, emphasizing the importance of regular eye exams and proactive management strategies.
Let Treehouse Eyes Help Your Child Manage Myopia
Treehouse Eyes' doctors use modern equipment to develop personalized treatment plans for your child. Our plans include special prescription eye drops and customized daytime and overnight contact lenses. Your eye doctor will determine the best treatment plan for your child at your initial consultation.
Myopia Management at Project Eyecare Optometry
We incorporate Treehouse Eyes' myopia management strategies to help slow myopia progression in children. These strategies focus on a tailored approach, utilizing advanced technologies and personalized treatment plans. Schedule an appointment with us in Mission Viejo to learn more about our myopia management strategies. Don't wait to address nearsightedness — early intervention can make a significant difference.
