Why does my child’s vision get worse every year and what can I do about it? Myopia is being considered as a disease especially since the prevalence has been increasing. It’s currently at 33% in the USA and growing and 90% in East Asia.
The risks of being near-sighted include glaucoma, cataract, and retinal detachment. The risk is higher when the prescription is higher, but the risk of retinal detachment can still occur at the lower prescriptions. This is why have a dilated fundus exam at your eye doctor / optometrist is important every year.
It is important to take breaks while doing long hours of near work. There is a 20/20 rule that is recommended which is, take a 20 sec break after reading or using a digital device for 20 mins and look 20 feet away. Also, spending 2-3 hours outside during the day light hours also tends to have a therapeutic effect. Orthokeratology- reshaping of the cornea with custom lenses, multifocal contact lenses, and compounded atropine eye drops can also help control the growth of the eye. Call us today to see if your child is a candidate for myopia control. Dr. Achong-Coan has been doing myopia control at Coan Eye Care for the past 10 years She is a fellow of the International Academy of Orthokeratology and Myopia Control. Her office is located in southwest Orlando and serves the Orlando, Windermere, Winter Garden, Gotha, Oakland, and Clermont areas.