Study Finds that Nearsighted Children May Face Higher Chances of Mental Health Issues
Study Finds that Nearsighted Children May Face Higher Chances of Mental Health Issues
Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, impacts a child's quality of life at different levels. We have known for a while that myopia is associated with vision-threatening complications such as retinal detachment, macular degeneration and glaucoma. However, a new study has also linked myopia with anxiety and depression in children. With this vital information, it is even more important to identify and control children's myopia.
If your child suffers from nearsightedness, the good news is that there is help! Dr. Hannah Yecheskel and her team are certified providers of three state-of-the-art options for treating myopia, which could have a significant positive impact on your child.
Myopia Management Program
The first of these treatments, MiSight® 1 day contact lenses, are the first and only soft contact lens FDA-approved* to slow the progression of myopia in children, aged 8-12 at the initiation of treatment (1). This convenient, daily disposable contact lens is well-accepted by children and does not affect their daily activities. Learn more here.
Ortho-Keratology
Ortho-Keratology is an innovative, non-surgical treatment option that reshapes the cornea and temporarily modifies or eliminates myopia and low amounts of astigmatism. It works by gently flattening the cornea of the eye with the use of a custom-made retainer lens that is worn while sleeping. The lens is removed during waking hours. Learn more here.
Low Dose Atropine Therapy
Low dose atropine therapy has shown to be an effective approach in the treatment of myopia progression. Low dose atropine temporarily dilates the pupils and relaxes the focusing muscle inside your eye. When applied daily, low dose atropine drops were found to reduce myopia progression in children.
Each of these treatments have proven safe and effective for children. If your child is dealing with myopia, contact our optometrist in the Rockville, Maryland (Washington, DC area) who can help provide YOUR child with the treatment needED.
*Indications for Use: MiSight® 1 day (omafilcon A) soft (hydrophilic) contact lenses for daily wear are indicated for the correction of myopic ametropia and for slowing the progression of myopia in children with non-diseased eyes, who at the initiation of treatment are 8-12 years of age and have a refraction of -0.75 to -4.00 diopters (spherical equivalent) with ≤ 0.75 diopters of astigmatism. The lens is to be discarded after each removal. 1. Compared to a single vision 1 day lens over a 3 year period. Chamberlain P, et al. A 3-year randomized clinical trial of MiSight® lenses for myopia control. Optom Vis Sci. 2019; 96(8): 556-567.