The Importance of Managing Myopia in Kids

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is becoming increasingly common among children. With more kids spending time on digital devices and engaging in near-focused activities like reading, the rates of myopia are on the rise. At Primary Focus Eye Center, we believe that early intervention is crucial in managing myopia to help children maintain their vision health and reduce the risk of long-term complications.

Why Managing Myopia Matters

Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This results in blurry vision when looking at distant objects. Left untreated, myopia can lead to more than just poor vision—it can increase the risk of serious eye conditions later in life, such as:
• Retinal detachment
• Glaucoma
• Cataracts
• Myopic maculopathy
By managing myopia in childhood, we can slow the progression of nearsightedness, improving a child's quality of life and reducing their risk of future vision issues.

MiSight® Contact Lenses: A Proven Solution

MiSight® contact lenses are specifically designed for children with myopia. These soft, daily disposable lenses have been clinically proven to slow the progression of myopia in kids aged 8-12 by up to 59%. The unique design of MiSight® lenses helps to focus light properly on the retina, which not only improves vision but also encourages slower eye growth.
Some of the benefits of MiSight® lenses include:
• Comfortable and safe: As daily disposables, MiSight® lenses reduce the risk of infections and discomfort that can come with extended wear contacts.
• Proven effectiveness: Research has shown that children wearing MiSight® lenses experience a significant reduction in myopia progression, allowing them to maintain healthier vision as they grow.
• Convenience for parents and kids: With no need for cleaning solutions or overnight storage, MiSight® lenses are easy for both kids and parents to manage.

Atropine Eye Drops: A Non-Invasive Treatment

Atropine eye drops have also emerged as an effective option for controlling myopia in children. These drops are typically used in low concentrations (often 0.01%) and have been shown to slow the progression of myopia by reducing the eye's elongation. Atropine drops work by relaxing the eye's focusing muscles, which is thought to contribute to slower eye growth and, in turn, less myopia progression.
Some advantages of atropine eye drops include:
• Non-invasive treatment: Unlike contact lenses, atropine drops are a simple, non-invasive treatment that involves applying a few drops before bedtime.
• Minimal side effects: Low-dose atropine has been proven safe for long-term use in children, with minimal side effects like light sensitivity or blurry near vision, which are typically well-tolerated.
• Effective control: Studies have shown that atropine eye drops can slow myopia progression by up to 50%, making them an excellent option for kids who may not be ready for contact lenses.

The Importance of Regular Eye Exams

Managing myopia requires regular eye exams to track changes in your child’s vision. At Primary Focus Eye Center, we monitor each patient’s progress closely, adjusting treatments as needed to ensure the best possible outcomes. Early detection and management of myopia are essential to protecting your child’s long-term vision health.

Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam with Primary Focus Eye Center Today

Myopia is more than just a minor inconvenience—it’s a condition that can impact your child’s vision for life. By utilizing proven treatments like MiSight® contact lenses and atropine eye drops, we can help slow the progression of myopia and give your child the best chance for healthy eyesight.
If you’re concerned about your child’s vision or want to learn more about myopia management options, contact Primary Focus Eye Center to schedule an eye exam. Visit our office in Yakima, Washington, or call (509) 401-8277 to book an appointment today.