CAN MYOPIA BE PREVENTED?
Evidence indicates that it is possible to reduce the risk of onset of myopia. The condition may be delayed or prevented by spending less time on devices and more time outside, possibly due to increased exposure to sunlight or the need to look into the far distance regularly.
HOW IS MYOPIA MANAGED?
Unfortunately, myopia cannot be ‘cured’ but there are treatment options available to help slow its progression. These strategies are especially important in the case of moderate or high myopia, which may result in sight-threatening eye problems such as an increased risk of cataracts, myopic retinopathy, glaucoma and retinal detachment. Myopia progresses more rapidly between the ages of 6 and 13, but it can continue to progress into your 20s. If you are myopic or have a history of myopia in the family, we recommend scheduling regular eye examinations so that we can determine how much and how rapidly your eyes are changing. This enables us to recommend the best treatment option for your needs, which may include:
- myopia lenses, specifically designed to slow the rate of progression
- soft contact lenses
- therapeutic eye drops
- orthokeratology
- behavioural/lifestyle changes
- refractive surgery (once myopia has been stabilised)