As a parent, ensuring your child’s health is a top priority—and that includes their eyes. Myopia, or nearsightedness, is becoming increasingly common among children worldwide. If left unmanaged, it can lead to significant vision problems later in life. Fortunately, advancements in myopia management offer a proactive solution that can positively impact your child’s eye health.
Myopia is a condition where distant objects appear blurry, while close objects remain clear. It occurs when the eyeball grows too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of on it. Symptoms of myopia typically include squinting, difficulty seeing the board in school, and frequent headaches.
The prevalence of myopia is increasing at an alarming rate, with experts attributing this trend to lifestyle factors such as increased screen time and reduced outdoor activities. Beyond blurry vision, high levels of myopia can lead to serious eye health risks, including:
Retinal detachment
Glaucoma
Myopic maculopathy
In addition to these long-term health risks, myopia can have an immediate impact on a child’s learning and academic performance. Children with uncorrected or progressing myopia may struggle to see the board in class, read from a distance, or focus on visual materials, leading to difficulty understanding lessons, reduced confidence, and even behavioral issues. These challenges can hinder their ability to fully engage in their education and achieve their academic potential.
Managing myopia early is crucial not only for reducing health risks but also for supporting your child’s learning, ensuring they maintain healthy vision and thrive in school and beyond.
Myopia management focuses on slowing the progression of nearsightedness to protect long-term eye health. Early intervention can significantly reduce the risk of severe complications associated with high myopia. With effective strategies like Ortho-K, parents have the tools to help their children achieve better vision outcomes.
Orthokeratology, or Ortho-K, is a non-surgical treatment that uses specially designed rigid contact lenses to gently reshape the cornea while your child sleeps. By the morning, they wake up with clear vision, eliminating the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses. Ortho-K lenses are FDA-approved and are an excellent option for kids who are active in sports or simply prefer a glasses-free lifestyle.
The benefits of Ortho-K extend beyond clear vision:
Slows Myopia Progression: Studies show that Ortho-K can significantly reduce the progression of myopia, helping to safeguard long-term eye health.
Boosts Confidence: With clear vision during the day, kids can participate fully in school and activities without worrying about glasses or contact lenses.
Enhances Quality of Life: By addressing myopia early, Ortho-K helps children avoid the risks associated with high myopia later in life.
At See La Vie Eyecare & Eyewear, we understand the importance of personalized care for every child. Dr. Kayla Volkert is committed to helping your child achieve optimal eye health through customized solutions. During a comprehensive evaluation, she’ll determine if Ortho-K is the right choice for your child and guide you through every step of the process. She combines advanced technology, compassionate care, and a tailored approach to ensure your child’s vision is protected now and in the future.
Schedule a consultation at See La Vie Eyecare & Eyewear to learn more about Ortho-K and how it can transform your child’s vision and eye health. Visit our office in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, or call (610) 922-1225 to book an appointment today.