How Do I Prevent Myopia From Worsening?

Myopia is becoming increasingly common among children and adults. While glasses and contact lenses help correct blurry distance vision, they do not prevent myopia from progressing. At EyeDocs Family Eye Care, we offer comprehensive solutions for myopia management in Germantown, OH, giving families the tools and support they need to safeguard their vision for years to come.

Why Does Myopia Progress?

Myopia typically worsens when the eye grows too long or when the cornea becomes too steep, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. Several factors contribute to this progression, including:

• Genetics - A family history of myopia increases the likelihood of progression.

• Excess screen time - Long hours spent on digital devices or reading up close can strain the eyes.

• Limited outdoor time - Natural light supports healthy eye development, especially in children.

• Age - Myopia often progresses most rapidly between ages 6 and 18.

Understanding these factors is the first step in preventing further vision changes.

Increase Outdoor Time

Spending at least 1-2 hours outdoors daily has been shown to reduce the risk of rapid myopia progression in kids. Natural light and focusing on distant objects help give the eyes a much-needed break from close-up tasks.

Implement the 20-20-20 Rule

During homework, reading, or screen use, follow this simple guideline: Every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This helps reduce digital eye strain and encourages healthier focusing habits.

Encourage Proper Reading Distance

Holding books or devices too close forces the eyes to work harder. Aim for a reading distance of at least 14-16 inches and ensure lighting is bright enough to avoid squinting.

Limit Continuous Screen Time

Extended tablet and phone use can accelerate myopia progression. Encourage regular breaks and set boundaries for recreational screen time - especially for young children.

Schedule Regular Eye Exams

Detecting early changes is crucial. Comprehensive eye exams allow us to monitor vision closely and adjust treatment plans as needed. Early intervention can significantly impact long-term outcomes.

Advanced Myopia Management Options in Germantown, OH

EyeDocs Family Eye Care provides modern, evidence-based myopia control treatments to help slow progression safely and effectively. Depending on the patient’s age, eye health, and lifestyle, our recommendations may include:

• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Special overnight contact lenses that gently reshape the cornea while you sleep - allowing clear daytime vision without glasses or contacts and helping slow axial eye growth.

• Atropine Eye Drops: Low-dose atropine has been shown to significantly reduce myopia progression in children, making it a powerful option for long-term control.

• Myopia-Control Soft Contact Lenses: Specially designed lenses that provide clear vision while using optical technology to slow the eye’s growth.

With personalized treatment plans, we help ensure your child’s vision stays as clear and healthy as possible.

Schedule Your Child’s Comprehensive Eye Exam Today

Myopia is more common than ever - but it doesn’t have to worsen over time. By encouraging healthy visual habits, increasing outdoor time, and exploring proven myopia management options, you can take meaningful steps to protect lifelong vision.

If you’re concerned about your child’s or your own vision changing, contact EyeDocs Family Eye Care today to schedule your myopia management consultation and get personalized guidance for protecting healthy sight. Visit our office in Germantown, Ohio, or call (937) 745-2100 today.