MYOPIA CONTROL
Myopia control is about protecting eye health and quality of life.
Myopia is the term for a vision condition that requires glasses to see clearly at far distances. There are genetic, medical, and environmental factors that influence myopia growth in young children.
As a child grows, their eyes grow with them at a slow rate. Children with myopia are at risk of their eyes growing faster than desired. When the eyes grow too quickly, there is an increase in not just the glasses prescription, but also their risk of developing future ocular diseases and vision-threatening conditions, such as:
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Retinal detachments
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Macular disease
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Glaucoma
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Early cataracts
Optometrists worldwide, including our doctors at Northern Sight Optometry, are on a mission to slow down myopia growth as much as possible to lower children’s risk of developing ocular diseases.
Risk factors for myopia
GENETICS
More likely to develop if one or both parents have myopia.
MEDICATIONS
Certain sulpha or antipsychotic drugs can induce myopia.
VISUAL HABITS
Long hours spent on devices or reading, and holding objects close to face.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS
Such as premature birth, and neurological or behavioural conditions.
ENVIRONMENT
Limited exposure to sunlight and less time spent outdoors.
MENTAL HEALTH STRESS
Chronic feelings of anxiety, stress or tension, and lack of sleep.
Myopia control includes a variety of well-researched treatment options to slow down progression and promote a steady rate of growth throughout one's childhood and young adult years.
At Northern Sight Optometry, our doctors offer traditional and behavioural approaches to myopia control:
Special glasses or contact lenses
Lens options include bifocals, anti-fatigue, MiyoSmart, Stellest, and multifocal soft contact lenses.
Orthokeratology lenses
Hard contact lenses worn overnight while sleeping.
Vision therapy
A program to strengthen the eye's focusing system and reduce visual stress.
Wide-field retinal imaging
Annual retinal photos to monitor for risk of sight-threatening conditions caused by high myopia.
Have any questions before coming in?
Visit our FAQ page to know what to expect at Northern Sight Optometry.