Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is a common eye condition affecting millions worldwide. Poor vision at a distance, which becomes clearer as objects get closer, characterizes it. As myopia numbers continue to surge worldwide, especially among children, the need for effective management strategies becomes increasingly important.
Enter MiSight contact lenses, a groundbreaking solution designed specifically for children!
These lenses correct for poor vision associated with myopia and play a crucial role in slowing its progression. In this blog post, our Fullerton eye care team discusses common causes of myopia, the importance of managing this condition, who is at the highest risk for myopia, and how MiSight contact lenses can be a transformative tool in managing this condition effectively. Join us as we explore these innovative lenses and explain how they can improve children's and teens' vision and long-term eye health.
Common Causes of Myopia
The exact cause of myopia is complex and influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Genetically, if both parents are nearsighted, the likelihood of their children developing myopia significantly increases. Environmentally, extensive close work such as reading and using computers and other digital devices can exacerbate the risk. Additionally, recent studies suggest that limited outdoor activity may increase myopia risk, potentially due to less exposure to natural light.
Why is Myopia Management Important?
Effective myopia management is essential for preserving your child's long-term visual clarity and overall eye health. As myopia gets worse, the long-term risk of severe eye health issues such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration increases.
For example, research shows that people with severe myopia are 1.5x more likely to develop glaucoma and five to six times more likely to suffer a retinal detachment than people with mild myopia. Early and proactive intervention can slow down myopia progression significantly, reducing the risk of these potentially vision-threatening conditions.
Strategies such as using specially designed contact lenses and prescription eyeglasses and lifestyle adjustments, like increasing outdoor activity, are important possible parts of an overall myopia management plan.
Who's Most at Risk for Myopia?
Myopia is increasingly common globally, with significant increases in prevalence over recent decades, particularly in East Asia. Children are especially at risk due to the nature of their developing eyes. The risk increases if they have one or both parents with myopia or if they engage extensively in close visual tasks like reading or using digital devices without adequate breaks. Early detection and management are key to slowing progression and reducing long-term impacts.
MiSight Contact Lenses for Myopia Management
One innovative approach to controlling myopia progression is using MiSight 1 day disposable contact lenses. These soft contact lenses are for children. They are the first FDA-approved contact lenses designed specifically to slow myopia progression in children between the ages of 8 and 12 at the initiation of treatment.
MiSight lenses employ dual-focus technology that provides clear vision while simultaneously focusing peripheral light in front of the retina. This reduces the stimulus causing myopia progression. These daily disposable lenses not only correct existing myopia, making day-to-day vision clearer and more comfortable, but they also effectively slow down the rate at which your child's myopia progresses.
Effectiveness and Safety of MiSight Disposable Lenses
According to recent clinical studies on the effectiveness and safety of MiSight lenses over a multi-year period, children who wore MiSight lenses showed significantly slower progression of myopia than those who wore conventional soft contact lenses. These lenses are also comfortable for young wearers and have few bad side effects, making them a great option for long-term myopia management in children.
Parents considering MiSight lenses for their children should consult an eye care professional specializing in pediatric care and myopia management. At 20/20 Eye Care Center in Fullerton, our eye care team will conduct a thorough eye exam, discuss the benefits and responsibilities of using Misight disposable contact lenses, and provide training on proper lens care and maintenance.
Reduce Myopia Risks with 20/20 Eye Care Center
Myopia is more than an inconvenience; it is a significant risk factor for other more severe eye diseases. Managing myopia from an early age with innovative solutions like MiSight contact lenses can lead to better vision health outcomes and a higher quality of life for children affected by myopia. As myopia continues to become an increasingly common problem worldwide, it becomes even more critical to address it through effective management strategies.
Speak to our eye care team today to learn more and determine whether MiSight disposable contact lenses are a good fit for your child.
