How Myopia Progression Affects Long-Term Eye Health

Myopia is one of the most common vision conditions affecting children today. It occurs when the eye grows too long from front to back, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This results in distant objects appearing blurry while close-up vision remains clear. While glasses and contact lenses can correct blurry vision, they don’t stop the eye from continuing to elongate. Over time, this ongoing growth can increase the risk of developing serious eye diseases later in life.

Long-Term Risks of Uncontrolled Myopia

Unchecked myopia isn’t just an inconvenience - it can have lasting effects on eye health. The higher the degree of myopia, the greater the chance of developing conditions such as:

•           Retinal Detachment: As the eye stretches, the retina becomes thinner and more prone to tearing or detaching.

•           Glaucoma: Individuals with high myopia are more likely to experience elevated eye pressure, which can damage the optic nerve.

•           Cataracts: Myopic eyes often develop cataracts earlier in life.

•           Myopic Maculopathy: Excessive elongation of the eyeball can cause degeneration of the macula, leading to permanent vision loss.

Early detection and control are key to reducing these long-term risks and preserving lifelong vision.

Myopia Management Options in San Diego

At 4S Eyecare & Optometry, we specialize in myopia management in San Diego using evidence-based treatments proven to slow the progression of nearsightedness. Depending on your child’s needs, our eye doctors may recommend one or a combination of the following:

•           MiSight® 1 day contact lenses: FDA-approved soft lenses designed specifically to slow myopia progression in children.

•           Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Specially shaped overnight lenses that gently reshape the cornea while your child sleeps, providing clear vision during the day without glasses.

•           Atropine Eye Drops: Low-dose atropine drops are prescribed to relax the eye’s focusing mechanism and slow elongation.

Our team will carefully evaluate your child’s vision and create a personalized plan during their pediatric eye exam in San Diego to help protect their eyes for years to come.

The Importance of Regular Pediatric Eye Exams

Regular eye exams play a vital role in catching vision changes early. Myopia often develops rapidly during school years, so monitoring progression every six to twelve months ensures your child receives timely adjustments to their treatment plan. Our advanced technology and comprehensive approach allow us to detect even subtle changes in eye growth, helping to safeguard your child’s long-term vision.

Experience Expert Myopia Management at 4S Eyecare & Optometry

Myopia may start as a simple need for glasses, but its progression can have lifelong consequences if left unaddressed. Fortunately, modern myopia management provides effective solutions that can protect your child’s eyesight and reduce their risk of future eye disease.
 

Schedule a pediatric eye exam at 4S Eyecare & Optometry to learn more about myopia control options. Visit our office in San Diego, California, or call (858) 675-2020 to book an appointment today.