Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is an increasingly common eye condition, especially among children. At Hunterdon Family Eye Care, we specialize in advanced myopia management to slow its progression and ensure long-term vision health for your family.
What Is Myopia?
Myopia is a refractive error where distant objects appear blurry while close objects remain clear. This condition occurs because the eyeball is slightly elongated, causing light entering the eye to focus incorrectly. Myopia typically develops during childhood and can worsen into young adulthood.
Why Myopia Management Matters
Unchecked myopia progression can lead to severe visual impairment, increasing risks of eye diseases like glaucoma, retinal detachment, and cataracts later in life. Early intervention through myopia management can significantly reduce these risks.
Hunterdon Family Eye Care’s Approach to Myopia Management
Our expert team uses a combination of evidence-based treatments customized to your child’s specific needs:
- Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Specialized overnight contact lenses gently reshape the cornea, providing clear daytime vision without glasses or contacts.
- Atropine Eye Drops: Low-dose atropine drops effectively slow the progression of myopia in children.
- Multifocal Contact Lenses: Specially designed soft lenses that correct vision while simultaneously controlling myopia progression.
- Lifestyle Recommendations: Increasing outdoor activities and limiting prolonged near work or screen time to help slow myopia development.
Our dedicated professionals work closely with you to determine the most effective treatment approach, monitoring progress carefully through regular eye examinations.
Comprehensive Q&A on Myopia Management
Q: At what age should my child start myopia management?
A: Ideally, as soon as myopia is diagnosed, often around ages 6 to 12. Early intervention offers the best outcomes in managing and controlling progression.
Q: Is myopia management safe?
A: Yes, treatments like Orthokeratology, atropine drops, and multifocal lenses are extensively tested, FDA-approved, and very safe when managed by experienced eye care professionals.
Q: How effective is myopia management?
A: Clinical studies demonstrate that myopia management strategies can slow the progression of nearsightedness significantly, by up to 50% or more in many cases.
Q: Will my child still need glasses or contacts during treatment?
A: Some treatments, like Orthokeratology, can eliminate the need for daytime glasses or contacts. Others, such as multifocal lenses or atropine drops, typically still require corrective eyewear, though with potentially lower prescriptions.
Q: Can adults benefit from myopia management?
A: Myopia management primarily targets children and adolescents, as this is when progression is most active. However, adults can benefit from treatments like Ortho-K for visual convenience, although it won’t significantly change the degree of myopia.
Take the First Step Toward Better Vision
At Hunterdon Family Eye Care, our commitment is to safeguard your family’s vision with personalized, effective myopia management strategies. Schedule a consultation to discuss the best treatment options tailored to your child’s unique needs.
Contact Information:
Hunterdon Family Eye Care
Beaver Brook Concourse
1465 Route 31 South Ste. 22 Top Floor
Annandale, NJ 08801
Phone: (908) 730-6774
Text Us: 908-730-6774
Website: hunterdonfamilyeye.com