Myopia Management

Myopia Management

Myopia management is all about slowing down the progression of nearsightedness (myopia), especially in children and teens. It’s a growing concern worldwide because more people—especially kids—are developing myopia at younger ages, and higher levels of myopia can lead to serious eye health risks later in life (like retinal detachment, glaucoma, or macular degeneration).

Here are the main approaches to managing myopia:

👓 1. Glasses

• Specialty lenses: Glasses like DIMS lenses (Defocus Incorporated Multiple Segments) or MiyoSmart lenses are designed specifically to help slow myopia progression.

• Bifocal or progressive lenses: Sometimes used in kids with rapidly progressing myopia, though less effective than other methods.

👁️‍🗨️ 2. Contact Lenses

• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Rigid lenses worn overnight that temporarily reshape the cornea. They not only correct vision but can slow myopia progression.

• Multifocal soft lenses: Like MiSight (FDA-approved), designed to create specific defocus in the retina that slows myopia progression.

💊 3. Atropine Eye Drops

• Low-dose atropine (typically 0.01%) drops are used nightly and have shown to slow down eye elongation in children. Higher concentrations exist but may have more side effects.

🌿 4. Lifestyle Modifications

• More time outdoors: Studies show that spending at least 2 hours per day outside can significantly reduce the onset and progression of myopia.

• Less near work: Reducing screen time and encouraging regular breaks during reading or device use (like the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds).

🧠 5. Regular Monitoring

• Eye exams every 6–12 months are crucial to track progression and adjust treatment.