Better Children’s Eye Care: Myopia Management in New Jersey
Myopia, or nearsightedness, is becoming increasingly common in children across the United States and worldwide. If your child is squinting at the whiteboard, sitting too close to the TV, or struggling to see distant objects clearly, they may be experiencing myopia. The good news? Early intervention through myopia management can help slow its progression and protect your child’s long-term vision health.
Understanding Myopia in Children
Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This results in blurry distance vision while close-up objects remain clear. While genetics play a role, lifestyle factors like increased screen time and reduced outdoor activities have contributed to a dramatic rise in childhood myopia.
Why Myopia Management Matters
Myopia typically develops in childhood and can worsen as children grow. Higher levels of myopia increase the risk of serious eye conditions later in life, including:
- Retinal detachment
- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
- Myopic maculopathy
By slowing myopia progression during childhood, we can help reduce these risks and preserve your child’s vision for a lifetime.
Myopia Management Options at Somerset Eye Care
We offer evidence-based myopia management solutions tailored to your child’s unique needs:
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)
Ortho-K involves wearing specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses overnight. These lenses gently reshape the cornea while your child sleeps, providing clear vision during the day without glasses or contacts. Studies show Ortho-K can significantly slow myopia progression.
Multifocal Contact Lenses
Specially designed soft contact lenses worn during the day have been clinically proven to slow myopia progression in children. These lenses are comfortable, easy to use, and effective for active kids.
Atropine Eye Drops
Low-dose atropine drops, applied at bedtime, have shown promising results in slowing myopia progression with minimal side effects. This simple treatment option can be used alone or in combination with other methods.
Lifestyle Modifications
We also provide guidance on lifestyle changes that support healthy vision development:
- Encouraging outdoor time (at least 90 minutes daily)
- Managing screen time and practicing the 20-20-20 rule
- Ensuring proper reading distance and lighting
- Regular comprehensive eye exams
When to Start Myopia Management
The earlier we begin myopia management, the better the outcomes. If your child has been diagnosed with myopia or has a family history of nearsightedness, it’s worth scheduling a myopia management consultation. We typically recommend starting treatment when myopia is first detected or when progression is noted during routine exams.
Comprehensive Pediatric Eye Care in New Jersey
At Somerset Eye Care, we understand that every child’s vision needs are unique. Our experienced team takes time to thoroughly evaluate your child’s eyes, discuss family history, and explain all available options. We partner with parents to create personalized myopia management plans that fit your child’s lifestyle and your family’s preferences.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
During a myopia management consultation, we will:
- Perform a comprehensive eye examination
- Measure the length and curvature of your child’s eyes
- Discuss your child’s visual habits and lifestyle
- Review family history and risk factors
- Explain treatment options and expected outcomes
- Answer all your questions and address concerns
Protecting Your Child’s Future Vision
Myopia management is an investment in your child’s long-term eye health and quality of life. With proper care and early intervention, we can help slow myopia progression and reduce the risk of vision-threatening complications in adulthood.
Don’t wait to address your child’s myopia. The sooner we start, the more effective treatment can be.
Schedule a Myopia Management Consultation
If you’re concerned about your child’s vision or want to learn more about myopia management options in New Jersey, contact Somerset Eye Care today. Our team is dedicated to providing the highest quality pediatric eye care and helping your child see clearly now and in the future.
Call us or visit our website to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward better children’s eye care.