In Waupaca, today’s children are also growing up with more screens and less sunlight. That’s a recipe for a rise in myopia (nearsightedness), and parents across the area are starting to notice their children’s prescriptions getting stronger year after year.
Fortunately, there are proven myopia treatments that do more than just correct vision; they help slow or stop the progression of myopia altogether. And our team is proud to bring those options to families right here at Advanced Family Eyecare in Waupaca.
What Is Myopia and Why Does It Worsen Over Time?
Myopia happens when the eyeball grows too long. This causes light to focus in front of the retina instead of right on it. As a result, faraway objects look blurry, while close-up objects still look clear.
Regular eyeglasses and contact lenses help your child see better, but they don’t stop the eyes from growing. That’s why many children need a new prescription every year.
Some factors that could lead to worsening myopia include:
- Excessive screen time and other close-up activities
- Low levels of outdoor sunlight exposure
- Family history of myopia
- Limited access to early eye care and monitoring
6 Proven Ways to Control Myopia Progression
At Advanced Family Eyecare in Waupaca, we don’t just give your child glasses and send them on their way. We use myopia management solutions that help slow the progression of myopia. Each child’s treatment plan is based on their age, prescription, and how quickly their eyesight is changing.
1. MiSight® Contact Lenses
MiSight® lenses are soft, daily contacts that children wear during the day. They correct vision and also slow down the rate of eye growth.
2. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)
Ortho-K lenses are worn at night while your child sleeps. They gently shape the front of the eye to give clear daytime vision; no glasses or contacts needed during the day. They also help slow eye growth.
3. Low-Dose Atropine Drops
Atropine eye drops are special prescription drops that are used once a day, typically at bedtime. They help relax the eye and slow its growth. Most children experience no discomfort, and side effects are rare.
4. Multifocal Glasses or Contacts
Multifocal lenses have different focus zones that help with both seeing clearly and slowing myopia progression in children. They are good for children who don’t want to wear contacts every day.
5. Healthier Habits at Home
Spending more time outside, reducing screen time, and taking breaks during close-up work can all help. Increased outdoor activity each day can lower the risk of myopia or slow its progression.
6. Regular Eye Examinations
With comprehensive eye exams, we keep track of how your child’s eyes are growing with detailed measurements, such as axial length. This helps us adjust treatment when needed and make sure their myopia is under control.
Start Myopia Management with a Waupaca Team You Can Trust
At Advanced Family Eyecare in Waupaca, we believe in catching myopia early and slowing it down before it becomes a bigger problem. Whether your child is new to glasses or has been experiencing frequent prescription changes, we can help create a plan tailored to their needs.
We take the time to explain every option, answer your questions, and support your child throughout the process. Book your child's eye exam to get personal care from eye doctors who understand what matters to Wisconsin families.
Myopia Management FAQs
Can time outdoors really help with myopia?
Yes. Studies show that more time spent outdoors can lower the chances of developing myopia or slow its progression. Sunlight and outdoor activities are good for eye health.
When should my child start myopia management?
Starting myopia management at around 6 or 7 years of age gives the best results. But older children and teens can still benefit too, especially if their prescription keeps getting stronger.
How long does my child need myopia control treatment?
Most children stay in myopia management programs until their vision levels out, usually in their late teens. Regular checkups help decide when it’s time to stop or adjust the treatment.
Can my child still play sports while getting myopia management?
Absolutely. Many treatments, such as Ortho-K or MiSight lenses, actually make sports easier by reducing or eliminating the need for daytime glasses or contacts.