Myopia control
Why is it concerning to near-sighted/ myopic?
This is because high myopia or degenerative myopia can lead to sight-threatening complications.
This includes:
-retinal detachment/thinning
-glaucoma
-vitreal degeneration
-other retinal changes may occur secondary to the progressive axial elongation of the eye with myopic shifts
Why does the axial length matter?
Axial length (measured from the front to the back surface of the eyes) changes associated with the progression of myopia. Therefore rapid changes in children's eyes require immediate attention. Myopia management strategies should be introduced to slow down elongation of the eyes (retina) and thus reducing the myopic shift. This can prevent development of sight-threatening complications. Halting myopic progression in children improves the chances for healthy eyes in the future.
How to monitor rate of myopic progression in children?
It is advised that children have eye examinations on a regular basis. Start with bringing children for annual exams at a young age and monitor for near-sighted/myopic shifts. The chances of a child developing myopia is more likely if it runs in the family (genetics) and may start at the time when they are just learning to read/write (school-aged). Sometimes myopia has a later onset as well, but it is just as important to see the eye doctor regularly. Schedule a consultation for your child. Book a baseline axial length measurement.
What are the forms of myopia control?
With the development or rapid progression of myopia, it may be suggested to start with one of the following methods of myopic control
-behavioural interventions (increase time outdoors, near-work/ screen-time limitations)
-low dose atropine therapy
-spectacle therapy
-soft contact lens treatment
-orthokeratology
Book a consultation to assess your child’s needs and explore proven myopic control options available at our MARKHAM CLINIC
