Myopia Control: Can You Stop It From Progressing?

One of the biggest concerns about myopia is not just needing stronger glasses but its tendency to worsen over time. Progressive myopia can increase the risk of serious eye conditions later in life, such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, cataracts, and myopic macular degeneration. With more children developing myopia at younger ages, parents are often left wondering: Can you stop myopia from progressing?

Can Myopia Be Stopped?

Currently, there is no way to completely stop myopia from progressing. However, research and clinical studies have shown that certain treatments can significantly slow down its progression. By controlling myopia, our eye doctors aim to reduce the risk of long-term vision complications and help children maintain healthier eyesight into adulthood.

Why Early Action Is Crucial

The earlier myopia is diagnosed and managed, the more effective treatment can be. Regular pediatric eye exams are essential for detecting early signs of myopia and tracking changes in vision over time. Left unchecked, myopia often worsens throughout childhood and adolescence. By starting myopia control strategies early, parents can help protect their child’s future eye health.

Effective Myopia Management Options

• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Specially designed contact lenses are worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea while sleeping. During the day, patients enjoy clear vision without glasses or contacts. Studies show that Ortho-K can slow the progression of myopia in children.

• Atropine Eye Drops: Low-dose atropine drops, used under the guidance of an eye doctor, have been proven effective in slowing myopia progression in children. These drops are typically applied once daily before bedtime.

• MiSight® Contact Lenses: These soft, daily disposable contact lenses are FDA-approved for myopia control in children. They use specialized optics to reduce eye growth that leads to worsening myopia.

Encouraging children to spend more time outdoors, limiting excessive screen time, and ensuring proper lighting when reading or studying can also help protect vision and reduce the rate of myopia progression.

Take the Next Step in Protecting Your Child’s Vision

While you cannot stop myopia entirely, you can slow its progression and reduce the risks associated with high myopia. With modern treatment options like Ortho-K, atropine eye drops, and MiSight® contact lenses, children today have better chances of maintaining clearer, healthier vision for years to come.

At Clarendon Vision Advanced EyeCare, we specialize in myopia management and offer personalized treatment plans for children. Schedule a pediatric eye exam to learn which myopia control options are right for your family. Visit our office in Westmont, Illinois, or call (630) 323-7300 to book an appointment today.