Myopia Control for Teens and Young Adults: Options for Slowing Down Nearsightedness

Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is a refractive error that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by the inability to see distant objects clearly, while close objects appear sharp. The exact cause of myopia is still unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
 

One of the main symptoms of myopia is blurred vision when looking at objects at a distance. This can make it difficult for teenagers and young adults to participate in activities such as watching a presentation in school or playing sports. Other symptoms may include eye strain, headaches, and squinting.
 

The Importance of Myopia Management

If left unmanaged, myopia can progress rapidly, leading to higher levels of nearsightedness and an increased risk of developing eye conditions like retinal detachment, glaucoma, and cataracts.
 

Myopia management is crucial for teens and young adults to slow down the progression of their nearsightedness. By controlling myopia, we can reduce the risk of vision complications in the future. It is important to consult with an optometrist who specializes in myopia management to discuss the available options for your teen or young adult.
 

How MiSight Contact Lenses Work and Its Benefits

MiSight is a revolutionary soft contact lens designed specifically for myopia control in teenagers and young adults. It utilizes a unique dual-focus technology that corrects the refractive error in the central portion of the lens, while the peripheral part creates myopic defocus. This myopic defocus has been shown to slow down the elongation of the eye, which is the main cause of myopia progression.
 

The benefits of MiSight extend beyond just slowing down myopia. It also provides clear and comfortable vision throughout the day, allowing teens and young adults to engage in their daily activities without any visual disruptions. MiSight lenses are easy to use and maintain, making them an excellent option for those who are new to contact lens wear.
 

What is Orthokeratology?

Orthokeratology, commonly known as Ortho-K, is a non-surgical option for myopia control. It involves wearing specialized gas-permeable contact lenses overnight, which gently reshape the cornea while you sleep. The corneal reshaping effect allows for clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or contact lenses.
 

Ortho-K is a safe and effective option for teens and young adults who are not comfortable wearing contact lenses during the day or are involved in sports activities where glasses may be inconvenient. It offers the added benefit of temporary myopia correction, meaning the effects of Ortho-K can be reversed if you decide to stop using the lenses.
 

Choosing the Right Myopia Management Option

When it comes to choosing the right myopia control option for your teen or young adult, it is essential to consider their lifestyle, visual needs, and comfort level. Consultation with an eye doctor is crucial to assess the individual's specific requirements and determine the most suitable option.
 

Factors such as the severity of myopia, age, and personal preferences should be taken into account. Both MiSight and Ortho-K have proven to be effective in slowing down myopia progression, but each option has its advantages and considerations. Your optometrist will guide you through the decision-making process and ensure that the chosen option aligns with your teen or young adult's needs.
 

Schedule a Consultation with Lookout Eyecare Today

Myopia is a common vision problem among teenagers and young adults, but with the right approach, it can be effectively managed. The advancements in myopia control options, such as MiSight and Ortho-K, provide promising solutions for slowing down the progression of nearsightedness.
 

Take the first step towards myopia management by scheduling an appointment today, visit Lookout Eyecare at our office in San Antonio, Texas. Please call (210) 236-7273 to book an appointment.