Tips for Parents: Identifying and Managing Myopia in Kids

With the increased use of digital devices and reduced time spent outdoors, the prevalence of myopia in kids is on the rise. Early identification and proactive management are crucial in controlling its progression and ensuring your child’s vision health. At Warm Springs Optometric Group, we are here to guide you in understanding and managing myopia effectively.

Identifying Myopia in Kids

The first step in managing myopia is recognizing the signs. Some common symptoms of myopia in children include:

•          Squinting to see distant objects

•          Complaints of blurry vision when looking at the board in school

•          Frequent headaches or eye strain

•          Sitting too close to the TV or holding devices too close to their face

•          Avoiding activities that require seeing at a distance, such as sports

If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a comprehensive eye exam for your child. Early detection is essential to slow the progression of myopia and prevent future complications.

Proactive Tips for Parents

There are lifestyle adjustments that can help reduce the risk of myopia or slow its progression:

•          Encourage outdoor activities: Spending at least 1-2 hours outdoors daily has been shown to reduce myopia progression.

•          Limit screen time: Implement the 20-20-20 rule—every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

•          Ensure proper lighting: Provide adequate lighting for reading and other close-up tasks to reduce eye strain.

•          Schedule regular eye exams: Early and consistent monitoring helps detect and manage changes in your child’s vision effectively.

Managing Myopia in Kids

There are several evidence-based methods to manage myopia progression in children. Here’s how they work and their benefits:

1. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)

Orthokeratology involves specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses worn overnight. These lenses gently reshape the cornea, allowing clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or contact lenses. Ortho-K not only provides functional vision correction but also has been shown to slow myopia progression significantly. It’s an excellent option for active kids who want freedom from glasses during the day.

2. Soft Multifocal Contact Lenses

Soft multifocal contact lenses are designed with different zones of focus, which help reduce the progression of myopia by altering how light is focused on the retina. These lenses are comfortable and easy to wear, making them a popular choice for children who are ready for contact lenses. They also allow kids to participate in sports and other activities without the inconvenience of glasses.

3. Low-Dose Atropine Drops

Low-dose atropine eye drops have emerged as a highly effective treatment for slowing myopia progression. These drops are typically applied once daily, and they work by relaxing the eye’s focusing mechanism, reducing the strain that contributes to myopia. Atropine is safe for children and is often recommended as part of a comprehensive myopia management plan.

Comprehensive Myopia Management at Warm Springs Optometric Group

Managing myopia in children is more than just addressing blurry vision—it’s about protecting their long-term eye health and enhancing their quality of life. By identifying the signs early and utilizing proven treatments, parents can take proactive steps to slow myopia progression. Combined with healthy habits like outdoor play and regular eye exams, these strategies can make a significant difference in your child’s vision health.

Contact Warm Springs Optometric Group to schedule a pediatric eye exam and explore a personalized myopia management plan tailored to your child’s needs. Visit our office in Fremont, California, or call (510) 490-0287 to book an appointment today.