Signs and Symptoms of Myopia

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a common refractive error that affects the way the eye focuses on distant objects, making them appear blurry. It is a condition that often starts in childhood and can progress over time, especially if not properly managed. Early detection and control are critical in preventing severe vision problems later in life. Understanding the signs and symptoms of myopia, as well as the importance of myopia control, can help ensure your or your child's vision remains as healthy as possible.

Recognizing the Signs of Myopia

The onset of myopia can occur at any age, but it most commonly develops in childhood and progresses through the teenage years. Here are some common signs and symptoms that may indicate myopia:

Blurry Distance Vision: A hallmark symptom of myopia is difficulty seeing distant objects clearly. If your child is squinting to see the board in class or you find yourself struggling to read street signs, it could be a sign of myopia.
Frequent Squinting: Squinting is often a way for people with myopia to temporarily improve focus. If you notice your child squinting frequently, it may be because they are trying to sharpen their vision.
Sitting Too Close to Screens or Books: Children with myopia may sit closer to the TV, computer, or hold books very close to their face to see clearly.
Eye Strain and Headaches: Persistent eye strain and headaches, particularly after focusing on distant objects, can be a sign of uncorrected myopia.
Excessive Blinking or Rubbing of the Eyes: These behaviors can indicate that your child's eyes are uncomfortable due to constant strain from trying to see clearly.
Difficulty Seeing at Night: Some individuals with myopia also experience issues with night vision, finding it hard to see well in low-light situations.

Why Myopia Control is Important

Uncontrolled myopia can lead to a higher risk of serious eye conditions later in life, including glaucoma, cataracts, retinal detachment, and macular degeneration. This makes early intervention and myopia control critical for long-term eye health.

As myopia progresses, the eye elongates, causing further distortion in how light focuses on the retina. Slowing or halting the progression of myopia can significantly reduce the risk of vision-threatening complications.

Myopia Control Options

There are several effective myopia control treatments available today. These treatments are designed not only to correct vision but to slow the progression of myopia, offering better long-term outcomes for patients.

Ortho-K involves wearing specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses overnight, which gently reshape the cornea while you sleep. This temporary reshaping allows clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or contact lenses. More importantly, studies have shown that Ortho-K can significantly slow the progression of myopia in children.

MiSight® contact lenses are soft, daily disposable lenses that have been FDA-approved specifically for myopia control in children. They work by creating a special optical design that focuses light in a way that reduces the signals responsible for myopia progression, helping slow its advancement while providing clear vision.

Low-dose atropine eye drops are another myopia control treatment. These drops are applied once daily and have been shown to effectively slow the progression of myopia in children. While the exact mechanism isn't fully understood, it is thought that atropine helps control the growth of the eye, reducing the progression of myopia over time.

Schedule a Comprehensive Eye Exam with GoTran Optometry Today

If your child is experiencing any of the signs and symptoms of myopia, it's important to schedule an eye exam. Early detection is key, and your optometrist can recommend a personalized myopia control plan to suit your needs. At GoTran Optometry, we specialize in comprehensive myopia management and offer the latest in myopia control treatments, including Ortho-K, MiSight® lenses, and atropine drops.

Contact GoTran Optometry to learn more about how we can help manage and control myopia, ensuring clearer vision and healthier eyes for the future. Visit our office in Huntington Beach, California, or call (714) 898-3464 to book an appointment today.