Not everyone is so fortunate enough to have clear, sharp vision without the support of glasses or contacts. We’re seeing a rise in nearsightedness (myopia), as our world becomes more digital. Although glasses or contact lenses can correct vision, they don’t address the underlying issue of worsening myopia.
As myopia worsens, the eyes’ elongation continues. This process further stresses its delicate structures, which can have long-term consequences for eye health and vision down the line.
While we can’t alter the eye’s physical shape, the good news is that there are effective strategies to help manage myopia with therapies and simple lifestyle changes:
- Start with myopia control therapies.
- Take breaks from screens.
- Spend more time outdoors.
- Teach proper studying habits.
- Eat a balanced diet.
- Schedule routine eye exams.
Start with Myopia Control Therapies
Myopia control is a treatment program designed to slow myopia progression by targeting the underlying causes of eye elongation, a primary driver of worsening myopia. Eye elongation is often influenced by genetics and environmental conditions like prolonged near work (reading or heavy screen use) or spending limited time outdoors in natural light.
In the realm of myopia control, our team proudly offers:
- Multifocal contact lenses: These lenses feature multiple zones of focus that redistribute light to reduce peripheral blur. This process helps reduce eye strain and slow its elongation.
- Low-dose atropine eye drops: Applied nightly, these drops temporarily help relax the eye’s focusing mechanism, decreasing stress and strain that can contribute to eye elongation.
Myopia causes blurry distance vision because it alters the eye’s shape. When the eye elongates, incoming light focuses in front of the retina, instead of directly on it. Myopia control therapies aim to slow or halt this elongation by altering the way light is distributed within the eye.
Ideally, the sooner we start this program (when children’s eyes are still growing), the better. Since their eyes are more responsive to treatment, it can yield better results. However, it’s never too late to start.
Take Breaks from Screens
It’s no secret that so many of us spend hours of the day focused on a computer or smartphone. These devices are a major part of modern life, but they can strain your eyes excessively.
When your eyes are focused on near objects for long hours (books, TV, digital screens, etc.), the focusing muscles in your eyes are constantly engaged, leading to eye strain, which can contribute to myopia progression.
Taking breaks away from screens (or any focusing work) lets the eyes relax, take a break, and shift their focus to distant objects. This helps promote a healthier balance between near and distance vision.
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Help your child develop the habit of looking at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds after every 20 minutes of screen time. This simple practice reduces eye strain and gives the eyes a break.
- Limit screen time: Set daily limits for recreational screen use and encourage other activities like reading physical books, playing outside, or engaging in creative hobbies.
Spend More Time Outdoors
Encourage your child to spend more time outdoors!
Research shows that spending time in natural lighting can help protect against myopia progression, giving the eyes a much-needed break from the intense demands of close-up work.
Motivate your child to spend at least 1–2 hours outside daily, whether it’s playing sports, biking, or simply exploring nature. Not only does this benefit eye health, but outdoor time is also great for overall physical and mental well-being.
Teach Proper Studying Habits
Poor posture and insufficient lighting can lead to unnecessary eye strain. Proper ergonomics can make a difference.
- Maintain good posture: Encourage your child to sit upright with their book, tablet, or notebook at a comfortable distance (about 12–16 inches away from their eyes).
- Improve lighting: Verify their study space is well-lit with natural or appropriate artificial light. Dim lighting can strain the eyes, leading to discomfort and fatigue.
Eat a Balanced Diet
Nourishing foods help maintain healthy vision and eye health. Eating a balanced diet of colorful foods and limiting processed and sugary junk foods are some simple measures you can take.
- Focus on eye-friendly nutrients: Include foods high in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as zinc and omega-3 fatty acids. Think carrots, leafy greens, citrus fruits, nuts, and fatty fish like salmon.
- Stay hydrated: Encourage your child to drink plenty of water to keep their eyes hydrated and prevent dryness.
Schedule Routine Eye Exams
Don’t skip your children’s annual eye exam! These visits are one of the most effective ways to monitor and manage myopia progression.
If you notice signs of squinting, headaches, or difficulty reading, schedule an eye exam right away. Your eye doctor can track changes in your child’s vision, recommend updated prescriptions when necessary, and adjust myopia control therapies for ideal results.
Identifying concerns early encourages timely management and facilitates better outcomes.
Support Your Child’s Vision
Children explore the world with their sight and are visual learners. Supporting them on their myopia control journey is a proactive step toward protecting their future eye health.
At Total Vision Hercules, we’re proud to offer a holistic approach to myopia control, incorporating therapies with lifestyle measures and simple habits for better results. The sooner we begin management, the better we can create strong outcomes for your child. Connect with our team today and schedule a routine eye exam.
