Myopia Control

What is Myopia?

Myopia (short-sightedness) is a common vision condition where the eye grows too long or is too powerful, causing distance objects to appear blurred while near vision remains clear.

Why is Myopia Control Important?

In children, myopia often progresses as the eyes grow, particularly during the school-age and teenage years.

Higher levels of myopia are associated with an increased risk of serious eye conditions later in life, including retinal detachment and glaucoma, which can lead to vision loss. Stronger prescriptions also mean greater long-term dependence on glasses or contact lenses.

Myopia can also affect a child’s learning and development, with a significant portion of education relying on clear vision.

What Increases the Risk of Myopia?

Several factors can influence the onset and progression of myopia:

• Age: The younger a child becomes myopic, the faster it is likely to progress
• Family history: One myopic parent increases risk threefold; two myopic parents increase risk up to sixfold
• Ethnicity: Children of Asian descent tend to have higher rates of progression
• Visual environment: Limited time outdoors (less than 90 minutes per day) combined with prolonged near work (more than 3 hours outside school hours, especially at close distances under 20 cm) increases risk

What is Myopia Control?

Myopia control refers to evidence-based treatments designed to slow the progression of short-sightedness in children. While it does not cure myopia, it can significantly reduce how quickly it worsens over time.

Myopia Control Treatment Options

At Nicholls Optometrists, we offer a range of myopia control options to help slow the progression of short-sightedness in children and young adults. These include orthokeratology (Ortho-K) overnight lenses that gently reshape the cornea for clear daytime vision, soft daily disposable contact lenses designed specifically for myopia management, specially designed spectacle lenses that can be worn throughout the day, and low-dose atropine eye drops used at night. Each option works differently, and we can help determine the most suitable approach based on individual needs and lifestyle.