Studies show that the earlier in life myopia appears, the greater the risk of having high myopia in adulthood. Yearly progression of as little as 0.05 diopters can result in high myopia. It is therefore important to initiate and follow a myopia management program to reduce the risk of glaucoma, early cataracts and retinal detachment associated with high myopia.
To gain some control over myopia progression, it is essential to practice healthy habits. Spending time outdoors (80 to 120 minutes/day), limit screen time to less than 2 hours/day and get into the habit of taking 2-minute breaks and using your distance vision after having used your near vision for 30 consecutive minutes. You should also monitor your posture and visual distance during near activities.
Studies have shown that distance vision correction only, in both glasses and contact lenses, is not effective for high myopia, especially in the presence of risk factors such as genetics or an elongated axial length. Your optometrist and their team are there to answer questions about treatment options and adequately mange myopia progression.
To be effective, the chosen treatment must be followed for a minimum number of hours per day and for a minimum number of days per week. Your optometrist and their team will guide you:
Myopia Management Lenses
The lenses are specifically designed and tested to curb myopia progression and axial elongation. There are several products on the market, your optometrist will recommend the one best suited for your needs.
Contact Lenses
There are various contact lens options to help manage myopia. One option is to wear single use (daily disposable) contact lenses specifically designed for myopia management, a second option is to wear multifocal contact lenses and a third option is orthokeratology, which is a semi-rigid lens worn at night.
Pharmacological
Based on your condition, the optometrist could prescribe a medication in addition to the previous options or as a treatment solution on its own.
Depending on the treatment, a follow-up schedule is established to verify the integrity of the ocular surface (contact lens and pharmacological options) and to measure the axial length and refractive status (stability or progression). It is important follow visit protocol to ensure treatment success.
Ask an OPTOPLUS eye care professional about the products and services offered.
References:
1 Optoplus : https://www.optoplus.com/sante/troubles-visuels/
2 BHVI : https://bhvi.org/news/should-we-be-identifying-and-managing-pre-myopia/
3 OOQ : https://www.ooq.org/fr/articles-et-publications/la-myopie-chez-lenfant
4 My Kids Vision : https://www.mykidsvision.org/blog/what-can-i-do-to-help-my-child- who-has-become-short-sighted