When faraway objects start to look blurry, doing activities like driving and reading from a whiteboard at school becomes more challenging. Over time, nearsightedness affects not just the vision but also the quality of life, psychological development, personal well-being, and even education of individuals with this condition.

Fret not because there are proven and effective methods of myopia control.

Invest in Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses

There are two types of eyeglasses you can use — multifocal or bifocal. They are specially designed to slow down the progress of myopia.

If you don’t like wearing glasses, you can choose contact lenses instead. There are many types of contact lenses — some are for aesthetic purposes only. So, make sure to talk to an eye doctor to know the option that suits your preferences and eye condition.

Use Atropine Eye Drops

Atropine eye drops contain atropine sulfate, a medicine for widening the pupil and relaxing eye muscles so they can focus better. It is primarily used for treating eye inflammation. But studies have found low-concentration atropine eye drops given to patients daily to be effective in slowing the progression of myopia.

Consider Orthokeratology

Also called Ortho-K, Orthokeratology corrects nearsightedness. It is surgery-free. With this treatment, you need to sleep wearing a specially designed and fitted contact lens every night. It is typically recommended that children whose vision is not stable undergo other surgeries, like LASIK, yet.

On the downside, Ortho-K is related to an increased risk of eye infection, particularly in children and adolescents. It happens when there’s poor hand and contact lens hygiene.

Limit Screen Time

Spending hours looking at the screen of digital devices can increase the risk of myopia. It may also worsen the condition. So, give your eyes a break. Take some screen time off. Going outdoors can also help.

Use the 20-20-20 Rule

Gamers and online workers may have difficulty limiting screen time. In this case, at least follow the 20-20-20 rule. After 20 minutes of using a screen, you should spend 20 seconds looking at something 20 feet away. It will lessen your eye strain symptoms and may help slow the progress of myopia.

Eat Healthily

What you eat affects your eye health and your health in general. A balanced diet will always benefit you. As for your eyes, carrot is not the only food that can help keep them healthy. Oily fish like sardines, mackerel, herring, tuna, and salmon will also do you good. Also, stay hydrated.

Schedule Regular Eye Exams

Your optometrist is the best guide for everything related to your vision. They can monitor any anomalies or changes in your eye health. If you have myopia, they are the best people to go to manage or correct your vision. They will help you determine the best treatment.

Even if myopia is a common condition, it is still hard to live with it. Follow the tips above to slow down its progress. But nothing beats a piece of professional advice, so talk to your eye doctor.
 

Do you need help restoring your vision? Are you looking for more information about myopia control? Drop by Positive Eye Ons Optometry office in West Hollywood, California. You can book an appointment online or call (323) 651-5646.