From Glasses to Contacts: Exploring the Options for Myopia Management

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is one of the most common vision issues affecting people of all ages. If you or your child has been diagnosed with myopia, managing it effectively is key to maintaining eye health and reducing the risk of long-term complications. At Looysen I Care, we’re here to help you navigate the options available for myopia management, from traditional glasses to advanced contact lenses.

Understanding Myopia and Its Impact

Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long or the cornea becomes overly curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of on it. This leads to blurred distance vision. Without proper management, myopia can worsen over time, increasing the risk of conditions like retinal detachment, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.

Glasses for Myopia

Glasses are often the first step in correcting myopia, especially for children or individuals who are new to vision correction. They offer several advantages:

•          Convenience: Glasses are easy to wear and remove, making them a hassle-free option.

•          Variety: Modern glasses come in various styles and lens options, including those designed to reduce eye strain from digital screens.

While glasses effectively correct vision, they do not address the progression of myopia.

Contact Lenses for Myopia Management

For those seeking more flexibility, contact lenses are a popular alternative to glasses. Advances in contact lens technology have made them an effective tool for myopia management, offering various options tailored to individual needs and lifestyles.

Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses are another innovative option. These lenses are worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea, providing clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or contacts. Ortho-K lenses have also been shown to slow the progression of myopia, making them a particularly appealing choice for children and young adults.

Multifocal contact lenses are designed with multiple zones that help manage myopia progression while correcting vision. These lenses come in both soft and gas-permeable varieties, giving users the flexibility to choose the type that best suits their preferences and comfort levels. With these advanced options, contact lenses can be a practical and effective solution for managing myopia.

Beyond Glasses and Contacts

In addition to glasses and contacts, there are other ways to manage myopia, such as:

•          Atropine Eye Drops: A low-dose medication applied daily to slow eye growth and prevent worsening myopia.

•          Lifestyle Changes: Encouraging outdoor activities and reducing screen time can help slow myopia progression in children.

Get Started with Looysen I Care Today

The best myopia management solution depends on factors like your lifestyle, age, and specific vision needs. We will conduct a comprehensive eye exam to determine the severity of myopia and recommend tailored treatment options.

Contact Looysen I Care to schedule a comprehensive eye exam and explore the options for myopia management. Visit our office in Jamestown or Valley City, North Dakota. Please call (701) 252-3937 or (701) 845-4444 to book an appointment today.