Early Intervention for Myopia: Why It Matters and How to Get Started

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is becoming increasingly common among children worldwide. It affects their ability to see distant objects clearly while close-up vision remains sharp. Early detection and proactive management are essential to slowing its progression and reducing the risk of future eye health complications. At Eye Trends Southlake, we emphasize early intervention to help children maintain clear vision and prevent long-term issues associated with myopia.

Understanding Myopia

Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it. This results in blurred distance vision, making it difficult to see things like the board at school or road signs.
 

Symptoms of myopia may include:

• Squinting to see clearly

• Complaints of blurry distance vision

• Frequent headaches

• Holding books or screens very close

• Increased eye strain
   

Because myopia typically develops in childhood and progresses into the teen years, early detection is crucial.
 

Why Regular Pediatric Eye Exams Matter

Routine pediatric eye exams are the first step in catching myopia early. Many children don’t realize they have a vision problem, and without regular screenings, myopia can go undiagnosed until it significantly impacts their daily activities. Early detection allows for timely intervention, which can slow the progression of myopia and reduce the risk of associated eye diseases such as:

• Retinal detachment

• Glaucoma

• Cataracts

• Myopic maculopathy
   

Eye exams at Eye Trends Southlake include a comprehensive assessment of your child’s vision and eye health, ensuring that any vision changes are identified early.
 

What Is Myopia Management and Why Is It Important?

Myopia management is a proactive approach to slowing the progression of nearsightedness rather than simply correcting it with glasses. This is especially important because higher levels of myopia are linked to an increased risk of serious eye diseases later in life. By taking steps to manage myopia early, parents can help their children maintain healthier vision for the long term.
 

Myopia Management Strategies

Several effective treatment options are available for myopia management, including:

• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Ortho-K involves custom-designed rigid contact lenses that are worn overnight. These lenses gently reshape the cornea while the child sleeps, providing clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses.

• Multifocal Soft Contact Lenses: These specially designed contact lenses help correct vision while also slowing myopia progression. They offer a comfortable, non-invasive option for children who are comfortable wearing contacts.

• Low-Dose Atropine Eye Drops: Atropine eye drops are a promising treatment for reducing the rate of myopia progression. Applied nightly, these drops help slow eye growth and are a convenient option for younger children who may not be ready for contact lenses.
   

How to Get Started

If your child is showing signs of nearsightedness, the first step is to schedule an eye exam. Dr. Chris Steritz offers pediatric eye care and myopia management, providing customized treatment plans to help slow progression and protect long-term vision.
 

Contact Eye Trends Southlake to schedule your child’s eye exam and learn more about our myopia management solutions. Visit our office in Southlake, Texas, or call (817) 900-EYES (3937) to book an appointment today.