Myopia is becoming increasingly common, especially among children and young adults. While genetics play a role in its development, environmental factors and lifestyle choices can also influence its progression. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to slow myopia progression and protect your vision.

Increase Time Spent Outdoors

Studies suggest that spending more time outdoors, especially in natural sunlight, can help reduce the risk of myopia progression. Outdoor activities expose the eyes to natural light, which is believed to slow eye elongation—a key factor in myopia development.
 

Limit Screen Time and Near Work

Excessive use of digital devices and prolonged near work, such as reading or using a smartphone, can strain the eyes and contribute to myopia progression. Implementing the 20-20-20 rule—taking a 20-second break every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away—can help reduce eye strain. Additionally, holding reading materials at an appropriate distance (about 16 inches from the eyes) and ensuring proper lighting when reading or working on a screen can reduce eye fatigue and strain.
 

Follow a Healthy Diet

A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, lutein, and zeaxanthin can support overall eye health. Foods such as leafy greens, fish, nuts, and carrots provide essential nutrients that promote healthy vision.
 

Maintaining Regular Eye Exams

Routine eye exams allow for early detection and management of myopia progression, ensuring that any changes in vision are addressed promptly. During these exams, our optometrist will assess your eye health, monitor myopia progression, and recommend appropriate treatments tailored to your specific needs.
 

The Role of Orthokeratology in Myopia Control

Orthokeratology, commonly known as Ortho-K, is a non-surgical treatment that helps slow myopia progression. It involves wearing specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses overnight. These lenses gently reshape the cornea while you sleep, providing clear vision throughout the day without the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses.
 

Ortho-K has been shown to be an effective method for myopia management, especially in children and adolescents. By reshaping the cornea, Ortho-K reduces the elongation of the eye, which is a primary factor in myopia progression. This treatment is a great option for those looking to reduce their dependence on corrective eyewear while actively managing their myopia.
 

Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam Today

Managing myopia requires a proactive approach that includes lifestyle modifications and effective treatment options like Orthokeratology. By spending more time outdoors, reducing screen time, practicing healthy visual habits, and getting regular eye exams, you can take important steps to slow the progression of myopia and protect your long-term vision.
 

If your child is experiencing symptoms of myopia, contact Gregor Eye Care to schedule an eye exam and learn more about how Ortho-K. Visit our office in Overland Park, Kansas, or call (913) 685-0212 to book an appointment today.