Does your child struggle to see distant objects clearly? As the prevalence of myopia, or nearsightedness, continues to rise among children and teenagers, it has become crucial to explore effective ways to manage and slow down its progression. Myopia not only affects vision but can also impact academic performance and self-confidence.
The good news? Advancements in optometry have introduced a game-changing solution known as orthokeratology (ortho-K), which offers a safe and evidence-based approach to myopia management. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of ortho-K, examine the evidence supporting myopia management, and discuss its potential impact on school performance and confidence.
Detecting myopia early through regular eye exams at Mississauga Vision Centre in Mississauga is crucial to prevent vision-related difficulties and support a child's academic and social development.
The Impact of Myopia on Children’s Vision
Myopia is a common refractive error that causes distant objects to appear blurry while close-up objects remain clear. This condition occurs when the eye's length is longer than its optical power, leading light rays to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. With the increasing use of digital devices and less outdoor time, myopia rates have surged in recent years, affecting the vision and overall health of children and adolescents.
While genetics play a significant role, other environmental and lifestyle factors can also influence its development. Spending excessive time engaging in near-work activities like reading, using digital devices, or focusing on close-up tasks for extended periods may contribute to myopia in some individuals.
Additionally, a lack of outdoor time and exposure to natural light during childhood may increase the risk of myopia. Ensuring a balanced lifestyle that includes outdoor activities and regular eye exams is essential for preventing and managing this condition.
Childhood myopia can develop during school-age years and progressively worsen over time. Kids with myopia often struggle to see the board at school, face challenges in sports and outdoor activities, and may even experience headaches or eye strain.
Slowing Nearsightedness Through Myopia Management
Myopia management focuses on slowing down the progression of nearsightedness, aiming to reduce the risk of high myopia in adulthood. Mississauga Vision Centre offers innovative myopia management solutions, such as orthokeratology (ortho-K), to address this concern effectively.
Ortho-K uses custom-designed gas-permeable contact lenses worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea. This non-surgical approach temporarily corrects myopia, allowing children to enjoy clear vision during the day without wearing glasses or contact lenses.
What are the Benefits of Ortho-k?
Slowing Myopia Progression: Research has shown that ortho-K effectively slows down the progression of myopia in children and teenagers. This curbing of myopia progression can have a long-term positive impact on their vision and overall eye health.
Clear Vision without Daytime Lenses: Ortho-K provides clear vision during waking hours without the need for glasses or traditional contact lenses. This freedom can significantly boost a child's confidence and improve their quality of life.
Safe and Non-Invasive: Ortho-K is a non-surgical procedure, making it a safe option for children and adolescents. It involves no downtime, and the lenses are easy to handle and maintain with proper care.
Effective Myopia Control for Children in Mississauga
By slowing down myopia progression, ortho-K can positively impact a child's time at school. With improved vision, students can better engage in classroom activities, participate actively in discussions, and excel in their academic endeavours.
Let's join hands in promoting myopia prevention, ensuring our children's eye health remains a top priority. Schedule your child's eye exam with Mississauga Vision Centre today and set them up for success in school and beyond.