At SeePort Optometry, Dr. Hicks and our team are committed to supporting the eye health of children and families across North Port, Florida, and the surrounding areas. One of the most common vision issues we see in children is myopia.

Understanding Myopia

Myopia is a refractive error that causes distant objects to appear blurry while close-up objects remain clear. It occurs when the eye grows too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it. Myopia typically develops in childhood and tends to progress as the child grows.

Clear vision plays a critical role in a child’s learning and development. Children with undiagnosed or uncorrected myopia may struggle to see the board in class, experience headaches from eye strain, or avoid reading and other visual tasks. These challenges can lead to frustration, reduced academic performance, and even behavioral issues that are mistaken for attention problems.

The Importance of Early Detection

Annual comprehensive eye exams are essential for detecting vision issues like myopia early, often before a child even notices any symptoms. We provide thorough pediatric eye exams tailored to the unique needs of children at every stage of development. Our exams go beyond basic vision screenings to assess eye health, visual acuity, focusing ability, and eye coordination. By identifying problems early, we can begin treatment before vision worsens, helping to preserve long-term eye health and set your child up for success both in and out of the classroom.

What Is Myopia Control?

Myopia control refers to strategies designed to slow the progression of myopia over time. While glasses and contact lenses correct vision, they do not stop the eyes from continuing to elongate. Progressive myopia can significantly increase the risk of serious eye conditions later in life, including:

• Retinal detachment

• Glaucoma

• Cataracts

• Myopic macular degeneration

By implementing myopia control early, we help protect your child’s long-term vision and reduce the risks associated with high myopia.

Myopia Management Strategies We Offer

We offer a range of effective myopia management options, customized to suit your child’s needs and lifestyle. These include:

• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Specially designed rigid contact lenses worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea and provide clear vision during the day while slowing myopia progression.

• Atropine Eye Drops: Low-dose atropine drops are applied nightly to help reduce the rate of eye growth and control myopia progression.

• Multifocal Soft Contact Lenses: These lenses provide clear vision while also correcting peripheral defocus, a key factor in slowing the progression of myopia.

• Bifocal Spectacle Lenses: Glasses with different lens powers for distance and near vision can also help manage the progression of myopia in younger children.

Supporting Families in North Port and Beyond

Managing myopia starts with awareness and early action. With regular eye exams and a personalized myopia control plan, your child can maintain clear vision and reduce the risk of future eye health issues. At SeePort Optometry, Dr. Hicks is committed to helping families in North Port and surrounding communities navigate myopia with care, expertise, and proven solutions.

Contact SeePort Optometry today to schedule your child’s eye exam and learn more about our myopia management options.

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