Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a visual problem that is common among children and teenagers. If you have myopia, you may find it challenging to see objects clearly at a distance. At Eye and Contact Lens Center in Kirkland, WA, we provide pediatric eye exams to detect myopia early and treatment to slow down the progression. You can learn more about the condition below:
Symptoms of Myopia
Myopia symptoms may start gradually in young children and can become worse as children enter their teen years. Some of these symptoms include:
- Blurry vision that can impact a child or teenager’s ability to learn
- Frequent headaches
- Constant eye rubbing
- Constant squinting to improve line of sight
Myopia can be easily diagnosed through a pediatric eye exam. With an exam, our optometrist can provide prompt treatment and improve your child’s sight. Myopia is usually treated with prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses, however, we can recommend the eyewear that would be best suited for your child. If your child or teen plays sports, we may suggest they wear sports goggles to protect their glasses on the sports field.
Myopia Control
While most cases of myopia can be corrected through the use of glasses or contacts, our optometrist may recommend additional measures to keep your child’s condition under control. There is no cure for myopia, however, treatment is available can prevent the condition from worsening over time. Some myopia control treatments include:
- Low-dose atropine eye drops: These eye drops can slow down the progression of myopia
- Specialized multi-focal contacts: These contacts can help manage eye growth and minimize myopia symptoms
- Ortho-K contact lenses: Ortho-K lenses reshape the cornea, which can reduce myopia symptoms and improve your child’s sight. Utilizing Ortho-K lenses at night enables your child to see clearly during the day once the lenses are removed. In order to have clearer vision, your child or teenager must wear the lenses at night
Our pediatric eye care specialist may also recommend that you limit your child’s screen time to eliminate eye strain and protect his or her sight.
Contact us for Treatment Today
If your child is experiencing symptoms of myopia, our team at Eye and Contact Lens Center in Kirkland, WA, can help. We will perform an eye exam to determine the necessary treatment that can help them preserve their vision. To learn more about myopia causes, symptoms, and treatments, contact us at (425) 822-8204. We are happy to prpvide you with additional information and set you up with an appointment!