Did you know that myopia (nearsightedness) is on the rise among children worldwide? Studies show that nearly 30% of the global population is currently affected by myopia, and this number is expected to reach 50% by 2050. At Coastal Vision Center, we’re committed to addressing this growing concern with myopia management strategies for children.
Managing Myopia for Children in Torrance, CA
Signs Your Child May Have Myopia
Recognizing the signs of myopia can help you take proactive steps to manage your child’s vision. Some common symptoms of nearsightedness include:
- Squinting to see distant objects
- Holding books or screens very close to their face
- Complaints about blurry vision, especially when looking at the board in school
- Frequent headaches or eye strain
- Difficulty focusing on activities that require distance vision
If your child exhibits any of these symptoms, it’s time to schedule a pediatric eye exam at Coastal Vision Center
What Does it Mean to be Nearsighted?
Nearsightedness, or myopia, is a common refractive error where distant objects appear blurry while nearby objects remain clear. This occurs when the eyeball grows too long, or the cornea is too curved. The light then focuses in front of the retina instead of directly on it. Myopia typically develops during childhood and may worsen as your child grows.
Exploring the Risk Factors Behind Myopia
The exact cause of myopia is not entirely understood, but several factors can increase the likelihood of its development:
- Genetics: If one or both parents are nearsighted, there’s a higher chance your child will develop myopia.
- Prolonged Near Work: Activities like reading or using digital devices for extended periods can contribute to myopia progression.
- Limited Outdoor Time: Studies suggest that children who spend less time outdoors are at a greater risk of developing this condition.
- Age of Onset: The earlier myopia begins, the more severe it may become.
Why Is Myopia Management Important?
Managing myopia is about more than just correcting blurry vision. High myopia can increase the risk of severe eye disease later in life, such as:
- Retinal detachment
- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
- Myopic macular degeneration
By slowing myopia progression during childhood, we can reduce these risks and help preserve your child’s long-term eye health.
Myopia Managment for Children at Coastal Vision Center
Our team guides you through every step of managing your child’s myopia with a comprehensive and personalized approach:
- Pediatric Eye Exams: Our process begins with thorough eye exams to detect myopia early and assess its progression. Using advanced diagnostics, we ensure your child’s vision is carefully evaluated in a welcoming and child-friendly environment.
- Personalized Treatment Plans: Based on the diagnosis, we create a tailored myopia management plan to meet your child’s specific needs. Our goal is to slow the progression of myopia while supporting clear, comfortable vision.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Regular follow-up visits are an integral part of our myopia program. These appointments allow us to track your child’s progress, refine their treatment plan, and ensure the best possible outcomes.
MiSight® 1 Day Contact Lenses
MiSight® 1 Day contact lenses are a breakthrough solution in myopia management, FDA-approved for children aged 8 to 12. These lenses work by using a dual-focus design that simultaneously corrects your child’s vision and slows the progression of myopia.
The central part of the lens provides clear distance vision, while the peripheral treatment zones reduce the eye's elongation—a key factor in myopia progression. Designed for daytime wear and daily replacement, MiSight® lenses are safe and convenient, helping protect your child’s eye health and quality of life.
Ready to Protect Your Child’s Eye Health?
Don’t wait to address your child’s vision concerns. Early detection and management can make a lasting difference in their eye health and quality of life. Schedule a pediatric eye exam at Coastal Vision Center to learn more about our myopia management services and how we can help your child—now and in the future.