Understanding Myopia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Myopia is a growing vision concern, especially among children. At Seen Modern Eye Care & Eyewear, we believe that understanding this condition is key to managing it effectively. Let’s take a closer look at what causes myopia, the symptoms you should watch for, and the treatment options available to help protect your vision.

What Causes Myopia?

Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long from front to back or when the cornea is too curved. As a result, light entering the eye focuses in front of the retina instead of directly on it, causing distant objects to appear blurry while nearby objects remain clear.

While genetics play a major role in the development of myopia, environmental factors are increasingly recognized as contributors. Children who spend significant time doing close-up activities, like reading or using digital devices, and who spend less time outdoors are at greater risk of developing myopia.

Common Symptoms of Myopia

Recognizing the signs of myopia early can make a big difference in treatment and vision preservation. Symptoms often include:

• Blurred vision when looking at distant objects

• Squinting or partially closing the eyelids to see clearly

• Headaches caused by eyestrain

• Difficulty seeing the board at school or recognizing faces from a distance

• Frequent eye rubbing and blinking

If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule a comprehensive eye exam. At Seen Modern Eye Care & Eyewear, we offer advanced treatment options to slow the progression of myopia and enhance visual clarity.

Atropine Eye Drops

Low-dose atropine eye drops are a proven method for managing myopia in children. By relaxing the eye’s focusing mechanism, atropine can slow the elongation of the eye and help control the progression of nearsightedness.

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)

Ortho-K involves wearing specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses overnight that gently reshape the cornea while you sleep. In the morning, the lenses are removed, and you can enjoy clear vision throughout the day without the need for glasses or daytime contacts. Ortho-K is especially beneficial for active individuals and children involved in sports.

Soft Contact Lenses

Daily disposable soft contact lenses made by a company called Cooper Vision (Misight) recently got FDA approval as a treatment option and work by creating peripheral defocus in the lens which allows the patient to see clearly through the lenses but tricks the brain into slowing the progression of near-sightedness (myopia).  These options should be monitored by an eyecare provider to ensure appropriate success with such treatments.

Take the Next Step at Seen Modern Eye Care & Eyewear

Myopia may be common, but it doesn't have to compromise your child’s long-term vision. With the right care and proactive treatment, you can take control of its progression. We offer tailored solutions designed to protect and preserve your child’s sight.

If you are concerned about your child’s nearsightedness, schedule an eye exam with Seen Modern Eye Care & Eyewear to explore myopia management treatments. Visit our office in Ridgefield, Washington, or call (360) 887-7336 to book an appointment today.