One of the latest problems we are encountering with children is myopia; myopia is a term used for short sightedness. Myopia in children is often hereditary, and can start to really show when their eyes start to grow rapidly after the age of 4 years. Axial length is what the internal length of the eyeball is referred to as; when myopia develops it is when the axial length is too long, or alternatively the internal lens or cornea is too curved relative to the axial length. We can now manage the progression of myopia using specialised spectacles and contact lenses. Here at Grant and Glass Opticians we use MiYOSMART spectacle lenses and MySight contact lenses. These can be fitted to your child by one of our Optometrists or contact lens Opticians who will be able to guide you through the process and answer questions along the way.
MiYOSMART spectacle lenses look just like a normal set of spectacles but have an embedded technology of Defocus Incorporated Multiple Segments (D.I.M.S). There are small segments within the lens that provide the treatment area whilst allowing clear vision for everyday tasks to reduce the growth of the axial length. Hoya (manufacturers) claim a 60% slow down of myopia progression.
MiSight contact lenses have been tested over a 7 year trial and work on a basis of correction zones and treatment zones. These lenses provide the eyes clear vision alongside controlling the worsening of myopia. Coopervision (manufacturers) claim that 90% of myopic eyes respond well with this treatment and within the observed ages (8-17) it cuts the development of myopia in half. The best time to start this treatment is as early as possible to help stop the progression of myopia and reduce the growth of their axial length.
“There is evidence that spending increased time outside can delay the onset of myopia in some children, and may prevent it in others. There may also be an association between increased “near work” activities (such as screen use) and myopia development and progression. You should encourage children to play/spend time outdoors and promote a healthy balance of near vision activities whether or not myopia management is offered” The College of Optometry
