Myopia Control: Exploring the Latest Advances in Managing Nearsightedness
Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is a prevalent vision problem that affects millions of people worldwide. With the increasing use of digital devices, the number of individuals with myopia has been on the rise. To manage and slow the progression of myopia, various cutting-edge advances have emerged. In this blog, we will explore the latest developments in myopia control and discuss how Ottawa Valley Vision's myopia management services can help you maintain better vision.
Understanding Myopia
Myopia is a refractive error that causes difficulty in seeing distant objects clearly, while close objects appear sharp. It occurs when the eyeball's length is longer than normal, resulting in light rays focusing in front of the retina rather than directly on it. This discrepancy leads to blurry vision when looking at distant objects. Myopia can begin in childhood and typically progresses until the early twenties. Myopia control has become an important topic in optometry and in health care since there are several blinding ocular health conditions that can be caused my uncontrolled myopia. As a result, slowing the progression of myopia is important to long term ocular health as well as visual comfort.
Advances in Myopia Control
1. Myopia Control Lenses and Glasses
Specialized myopia control lenses and glasses are designed to reduce eye strain and manage the progression of myopia. These lenses aim to focus light accurately on the central retina but create defocus in the peripheral retina, limiting the elongation of the eye and slowing down myopia progression. Several of the myopia control specialized spectacle lenses that Ottawa Valley Vision offers boast a reduction in myopia of up to 65% thereby slowing the progression by more than half.
2. Multifocal Contact Lenses
Multifocal contact lenses are designed with different prescription powers in various zones of the lens, allowing users to see clearly at different distances. Research suggests that wearing multifocal lenses can slow down myopia progression in children by providing clear vision while also controlling the eye's focusing ability, thereby reducing strain and stress on the eye's focusing system.
3. Low-Dose Atropine Eye Drops
Atropine eye drops have been used for many years to dilate the pupils and temporarily paralyze the eye's focusing muscles. Low-dose atropine eye drops have recently gained attention as a potential treatment for myopia control. Studies indicate that daily use of low-dose atropine eye drops can slow the progression of myopia in children without significant side effects.
4. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)
Orthokeratology, or Ortho-K, is a non-surgical process that involves wearing specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses overnight. These lenses temporarily reshape the cornea, allowing for clearer vision during the day without the need for corrective eyewear. Studies have shown that Ortho-K can slow down the progression of myopia in children by reducing the elongation of the eyeball.
How Ottawa Valley Vision Can Help
At Ottawa Valley Vision, we offer comprehensive myopia management services, including assessment, diagnosis, and personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. Our experienced eye doctors will evaluate your vision and eye health, determine the most suitable myopia control option, and monitor your progress to ensure optimal results.
The latest advances in myopia control offer promising solutions to manage nearsightedness and protect your vision. Early intervention is essential to slow the progression of myopia and maintain better visual health. If you or a family member is experiencing nearsightedness, it is crucial to seek professional help and explore these innovative treatment options.
Take the first step towards better vision with Ottawa Valley Vision's cutting-edge myopia management services. Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive eye exam and discuss the most suitable myopia control solution for you or your child.
