Higher levels of myopia are associated with significantly increased risks vision loss resulting from glaucoma, retinal detachments, cataracts, and macular degeneration. Functionally, patients with higher levels of myopia are more limited in their contact lens options and require thicker glasses.
What causes myopia ?
Although the exact cause is still unknown, we do know there are several influencing factors. There is a genetic component - children of parents who are myopic are more likely to develop myopia. There is an environmental component - limited exposure to outdoor sunlight as well as increased amounts of reading and computer work are associated with higher levels of myopia. Under or over- corrected vision (incorrect prescriptions or not wearing glasses when they are needed) has been shown to accelerate progression of myopia.
How can myopia be prevented?
Fortunately recent research has shown us ways to reduce the progression of near sightedness in children.
Although the exact cause is still unknown, we do know there are several influencing factors. There is a genetic component - children of parents who are myopic are more likely to develop myopia. There is an environmental component - limited exposure to outdoor sunlight as well as increased amounts of reading and computer work are associated with higher levels of myopia. Under or over- corrected vision (incorrect prescriptions or not wearing glasses when they are needed) has been shown to accelerate progression of myopia.
How can myopia be prevented?
Fortunately recent research has shown us ways to reduce the progression of near sightedness in children.
- Increase your working distance- Hold reading materials such as books or tablets at waist level, or approximately 20” away.
- Reduce digital time- Limit your child's near work (including reading, homework, and screen time) to a maximum of 90 minutes a day.
- Take a break- Staring at near distances for extended periods of time can cause myopia progression. Take a break from near work for 20 seconds, every 20 minutes and look at something 20 feet away(20/20/20 rule).
- Get outside-A minimum of 90 minutes a day of outdoor time
- Blue Light Protection- Avoid using digital devices 1-2 hours before bedtime for better and more restful sleep. Use blue light filters on your digital devices, and apps that reduce blue light at night. Glasses with blue light protection technology are now available for anyone using computers for work and are perfect for kids who use digital devices
- Consider Myopia Control therapy- If your child is already myopic and progressing at a rapid rate, consider myopia control therapies. Specially designed multifocal contact lenses, corneal refractive therapy (gas permeable contacts worn at night) and atropine drug therapy are all options to control that have been shown to slow progression of nearsightedness.