Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Myopia Management for Children In Los Angeles

Why Is My Child Myopic?

• Hereditary - If one or both parents are myopic (nearsighted), there is a greater risk that their kids will be nearsighted too.
• Environmental - Children who spend a lot of time performing near activities (reading, using hand-held electronics, etc) have a greater risk of becoming nearsighted. Research shows spending more time outside lowers the risk of childhood myopia.

Why are more children being diagnosed with myopia?

More people are becoming myopic. In the early 1970s, only 25% of Americans were nearsighted. Today, the prevalence of myopia has increased to over 42%. And in some Asian countries, up to 80% of the population is myopic. Lifestyle changes resulting in children spending less time outdoors, and more near work, is driving myopia to epidemic levels.

Why is Myopia in Children a Concern?

• Vision - untreated, myopia in children usually progresses meaning their vision gets worse every year. This can impact activities, social life, and academic performance

• Disease risk - higher levels of myopia increase the lifetime risk of serious eye diseases such as glaucoma and retinal diseases
  
  

Can You Slow the Progression of Myopia in Kids?

YES! In expert hands, myopia treatment can slow down or even stop their eyes from becoming more myopic (nearsighted). Stronger glasses each year should not be normal. There is no cure, but you can most likely improve how your eyes are changing. Currently, our office focuses on 3 myopia treatments: prescription eye drops, daytime contact lenses, and overnight contact lenses.

What Myopia Treatment Options Are Available for My Child?

At Warm Springs Optometric Group in Fremont, we take a very personal approach to each case. We will customize treatment based on your child’s situation to ensure the experience is successful. Every family is unique and every child needs a plan that will not only slow their myopia but open them up to a new world of possibilities for their vision. We will be there for you every step of the way to answer all your questions and to make sure your child has a great experience.

• Prescription Eye Drops - For some children, the use of a prescription eye drop may be the best treatment for managing myopia. Drops are typically applied at night before bed, and can be a good option for children not yet ready for a contact lens option.

• Multifocal Contact Lenses – These specially designed contact lenses have multiple focal points, and have been proven to dramatically slow the progression of myopia in most children. They are worn during the day so also provide clear vision without wearing glasses. There are FDA-approved options such as MiSight® 1 day myopia control soft contact lenses.

• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) for Myopia Control – Orthokeratology, or Ortho-K, is a non-surgical treatment option for children with myopia. This treatment involves wearing special contact lenses overnight that reshape the cornea, allowing your child to experience clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or contacts. One of the most compelling reasons parents choose Ortho-K for their children is its ability to slow the progression of myopia. As a non-invasive treatment, Ortho-K provides both convenience and effectiveness in managing myopia in children.

Schedule a Complimentary Virtual Myopia Assessment or call 510-345-2313.

Have more questions? See an additional Myopia FAQ.