Is your child nearsighted? Do they often squint and hold tablets and books too close to their face? Childhood myopia is becoming more common, and many parents are concerned about how it might affect their child’s vision in the future.
Although eyeglasses and standard contact lenses can correct a child’s vision, they do not treat the underlying cause of myopia or slow its progression. At Coastal Family Eyecare, we offer custom myopia management treatment options to provide kids with better vision now and protect their eye health in the long term. So, when should you start thinking about myopia management for your child?
The earlier, the better
Myopia usually develops in childhood, typically between ages 6 and 12, and tends to worsen as children grow. Since myopia progression is often the fastest during these early years, starting treatment as soon as it is diagnosed can have the greatest impact on preserving long-term vision. If your child has been diagnosed with myopia, it’s best to start management right away, whether they’re 6, 8, or 12. The sooner we take action, the more effectively we can slow its progression and protect their long-term eye health.
Why early intervention matters
Myopia isn’t just about needing glasses; it increases the risk of serious eye conditions later in life, such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and myopic maculopathy. By managing myopia early, we can slow its progression and reduce the risk of these complications.
Signs your child may need myopia management
Are you trying to determine if your child is a suitable candidate for myopia management? It’s important to watch for these signs of myopia:
- Squinting or frequent eye rubbing
- Complaints about blurry vision when looking at distant objects
- Sitting too close to the TV or holding books close to their face
- Difficulty seeing the board at school
- Frequent prescription changes in their glasses
- Headaches or eye strain
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to schedule an eye exam with an eye doctor who specializes in myopia management!
Myopia management treatment options in Orange Beach
At Coastal Family Eyecare, we offer orthokeratology (ortho-k) lenses, a specialized, non-surgical treatment that gently reshapes the cornea overnight. These custom-fit gas-permeable lenses allow children to enjoy clear vision during the day without needing glasses or daytime contacts.
Ortho-k is a proven and effective method for myopia control. Research has shown that ortho-k lenses can significantly slow the progression of myopia in children, helping to reduce their long-term risk of developing serious eye conditions associated with high myopia. Because the lenses work while your child sleeps, they offer a convenient and comfortable option for active kids who don’t want to wear glasses or contacts during the day.
Schedule an appointment today
If you suspect your child has myopia or if their prescription is rapidly increasing, don’t wait—schedule an appointment at Coastal Family Eyecare for myopia management in Orange Beach, Alabama. Early intervention can make all the difference in preserving their vision!