The Long-Term Risks of Myopia: Why Early Treatment Matters


Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a growing concern among children and adolescents worldwide. At 4S Eyecare & Optometry, we believe in taking a proactive approach to vision care. Understanding the condition and the risks it poses when left untreated is the first step in protecting your child’s long-term eye health.
 

Understanding Myopia

Myopia is a refractive error that causes distant objects to appear blurry while close-up objects remain clear. It typically develops during childhood and often progresses through the teenage years. Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long from front to back or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it.
 

Why Early Detection Is Crucial

Early detection of myopia is key to slowing its progression and reducing the risk of serious complications later in life. Regular pediatric eye exams allow our optometrists to monitor your child’s vision and eye development. Even if your child doesn’t complain of blurry vision, symptoms such as squinting, sitting too close to screens, or frequent headaches may indicate a vision issue. Detecting myopia early allows for timely intervention using evidence-based treatments.
 

Long-Term Risks of Untreated Myopia

When myopia is left unmanaged, it can progress to high myopia—a more severe form of the condition that increases the risk of developing serious eye diseases, including:
 

• Retinal detachment
• Glaucoma
• Cataracts
• Myopic maculopathy

These conditions can lead to irreversible vision loss or even blindness. The earlier myopia develops and the faster it progresses, the greater the risk of complications later in life. That’s why taking steps to slow progression during childhood is so important. At 4S Eyecare & Optometry, we offer several evidence-based treatments to help manage myopia in children and teens.
 

Atropine Eye Drops

Low-dose atropine drops are applied nightly and have been shown to slow the progression of myopia without significantly affecting a child’s near vision or pupil size. They’re an easy, non-invasive option for younger children.
 

MiSight® 1 Day Contact Lenses

These FDA-approved daily soft contact lenses are designed specifically for children with myopia. MiSight lenses not only correct vision but also help slow the progression of myopia over time through a unique dual-focus design.
 

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)

Ortho-K involves specially designed gas-permeable lenses worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea. In the morning, lenses are removed and your child can enjoy clear vision all day without the need for glasses or contacts. Ortho-K has been clinically proven to slow myopia progression and is a great option for active kids.
 

Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam Today

Myopia is more than just a vision inconvenience, it’s a condition that can lead to serious eye health issues if not properly managed. With early detection and the right treatment plan, you can protect your child’s vision and help ensure a healthier future. Our team is here to support your child’s vision every step of the way.
 

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