Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is a prevalent condition that can have long-term implications if left uncontrolled. At Visionary Eye Care of Elizabeth City, NC, we understand the importance of myopia control for your eye health and overall well-being. If you’re worried about you or a loved one living with myopia, read more to explore the significance of myopia control and the range of methods available to your optometrist to address this concern.
What Is Myopia?
Myopia is characterized by blurry vision when looking at nearby objects, while distant objects remain in focus. It occurs due to the elongation of the eyeball, causing light to focus off of the retina instead of directly on it. Uncontrolled myopia progression can lead to more severe nearsightedness, which increases the risk of eye conditions. This can make it important to intervene early to slow down the progression of myopia. Myopia, or nearsightedness, can be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Family history, excessive near-work activities, limited outdoor activities, and prolonged screen time might contribute to the development of myopia.
Methods for Controlling Myopia
Several methods of myopia control exist, each tailored to meet individual needs. Orthokeratology, or Ortho-K, is a non-surgical approach that involves wearing special gas-permeable contact lenses overnight. These lenses gently reshape the cornea, providing temporary myopia correction during the day. Ortho-K offers advantages such as reduced reliance on glasses or daytime contact lenses and has been shown to slow down myopia progression.
Contact Lenses
Contact lenses are another option for myopia correction. By manipulating the light the is entering the eye, contact lenses can correct myopia while worn and offer the convenience of daytime wear.
Atropine Eye Drops
Atropine eye drops, a pharmaceutical intervention, can be used to reduce myopia progression. An eye doctor on our team will use these drops to dilate the pupil and temporarily relax the focusing mechanism of the eye. Atropine eye drops can help slow down myopia progression but considerations should be discussed with an eye care professional.
Get Eye Care from an Eye Doctor on Our Team for Blurry Vision
If you’re ready to take control of your myopia and safeguard your eye health, then now is the time to set up an appointment. Our team at Visionary Eye Care, located in Elizabeth City, NC, is committed to providing expert guidance and a comprehensive eye exam to assess your myopia and determine the most suitable control method for you. Call us at (252) 512-5004 for more information from an optometrist on our team about blurry vision.