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If you’ve noticed your child squinting to see distant objects, sitting closer to the television, or struggling in school, they may be experiencing myopia. Myopia is on the rise among children, but the good news is that there are proven strategies to slow its progression and protect your child’s long-term vision.
 

What Is Myopia?

Myopia is a common vision condition where distant objects appear blurry while close-up objects remain clear. This happens when the eye grows too long from front to back, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. Myopia often begins in childhood and can worsen as kids grow, particularly during school-age years.

Children with uncorrected myopia may have difficulty seeing the board, reading classroom materials, or participating fully in lessons. This can lead to frustration, reduced confidence, and even lower grades. Myopia doesn’t just impact eyesight - it can affect your child’s entire learning experience.
 

The Importance of Regular Pediatric Eye Exams

Early detection and consistent monitoring are key to managing myopia. Pediatric eye exams can identify vision issues before they start to interfere with learning and development. Because myopia often progresses silently, annual eye exams help ensure your child’s prescription is always up to date and allow your eye doctor to monitor for any rapid changes. Early intervention can make a significant difference in your child’s eye health.
 

What Is Myopia Management and Why Is It Important?

Traditional glasses or standard contact lenses can correct blurry vision, but they do not slow the progression of myopia. Myopia management is a proactive approach designed to slow down how quickly myopia worsens. This is important because higher levels of myopia increase the risk of serious eye conditions later in life, such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. By controlling myopia progression early, you help safeguard your child’s long-term vision and eye health.
 

Myopia Management Strategies

At Bonney Lake Family Eye Care, we offer several effective myopia management treatments for children:

• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Ortho-K uses custom-fitted contact lenses worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea while your child sleeps. In the morning, your child enjoys clear vision all day without the need for glasses or daytime contacts. Ortho-K has been shown to significantly slow the progression of myopia in children.

• Atropine Eye Drops: Low-dose atropine eye drops, used nightly, have been proven to slow myopia progression in children. They are safe, easy to use, and can be especially helpful for kids who are not ready for contact lenses.

• MiSight® 1 Day Contact Lenses: MiSight® 1 day lenses are the first and only FDA-approved soft contact lenses specifically designed to slow myopia progression in children. These daily disposable lenses provide clear vision and are comfortable and convenient for young wearers.
 

Protect Your Child’s Sight at Bonney Lake FamilyEye Care

Myopia doesn’t have to limit your child’s potential or quality of life. By understanding the risks, recognizing the signs, and scheduling regular eye exams, you can take proactive steps to manage myopia and protect your child’s future vision.

If you’re concerned about your child’s vision or want to learn more about myopia management options, contact Bonney Lake Family Eye Care to schedule a pediatric eye exam. Visit our office in Bonney Lake, Washington, or call (253) 400-2128 to book an appointment today.