Current Treatment Options for Slowing Myopia Progression in Children

Myopia is a common vision condition that causes distant objects to appear blurry while close objects remain clear. It often begins in childhood and tends to worsen as the eyes continue to grow. As the prevalence of myopia increases worldwide, early diagnosis and effective management are more important than ever.

What Is Myopia Management?

Myopia management involves a proactive approach to slow the progression of myopia in children rather than simply correcting it with glasses. This is important because high levels of myopia are associated with an increased risk of serious eye conditions later in life, including retinal detachment, glaucoma, and myopic maculopathy. The goal of myopia management is to protect your child's long-term vision health by addressing the underlying causes of progression.

Why Is Myopia Management Important?

Slowing the progression of myopia early in life can reduce the risk of future eye diseases and dependence on thick prescription glasses. As children grow, so do their eyes, which can cause their myopia to worsen each year. Implementing myopia management strategies during childhood can have a lasting impact on preserving vision and preventing complications in adulthood. At Broad View Eye Center, we offer several evidence-based treatment options to help manage your child’s myopia.

Atropine Eye Drops

Low-dose atropine eye drops have been shown to effectively slow the progression of myopia in children. These drops are typically applied once daily and work by relaxing the eye’s focusing mechanism, although the exact way they slow myopia is still being studied. This treatment is well tolerated by most children and is often used in combination with other management methods.

Multifocal Soft Contact Lenses

These specially designed contact lenses help control how light is focused in the eye to reduce the stimulus that causes myopia to worsen. Worn during the day, multifocal soft contact lenses offer clear vision and have been clinically proven to slow the progression of myopia in children. They are a great option for active kids and teens who are comfortable wearing contacts.

Other Tools and Lifestyle Recommendations

In addition to the treatments, we may recommend changes to daily habits that support healthy vision. Encouraging outdoor play, reducing screen time, and ensuring proper lighting while reading or studying can all help minimize eye strain and support myopia management efforts.

Take the First Step Toward Long-Term Vision Health

If your child has been diagnosed with myopia, now is the time to take action. At Broad View Eye Center, we are committed to helping children maintain healthy vision through personalized myopia management plans. We will work with you to find the best treatment option for your child’s needs.

Schedule a pediatric eye exam at Broad View Eye Center to learn more about how we can help slow your child’s myopia progression. Visit our office in Berea, Broadview Heights, or Strongsville, Ohio. Call (440) 526-7070 or (440) 238-7865 to book an appointment today.