Understanding the Long-Term Risks of Progressive Myopia

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is becoming increasingly common among children and young adults worldwide. While wearing glasses or contact lenses can correct blurry distance vision, many people don’t realize that progressive myopia can lead to serious, long-term risks for eye health.
 

What Is Progressive Myopia?

Progressive myopia occurs when the eyeball continues to grow longer, making it difficult for light to focus properly on the retina. Unlike stable myopia, which remains consistent once a prescription is set, progressive myopia worsens year after year, often during childhood and teenage years.
 

The Long-Term Eye Health Risks

Uncontrolled progression of myopia isn’t just about needing stronger glasses - it can increase the risk of several vision-threatening conditions later in life:

• Retinal Detachment: A longer eye shape stretches and thins the retina, raising the chance of tears or detachment. This condition requires urgent treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.
• Myopic Maculopathy: Progressive myopia can damage the macula - leading to blurred or distorted sight.
• Glaucoma: People with high myopia are at a higher risk for glaucoma, a disease that damages the optic nerve and can cause irreversible blindness if not detected early.
• Cataracts: Although cataracts are common with age, they may develop earlier in patients with progressive myopia.

Why Early Action Matters

The earlier progressive myopia is managed, the better the outcomes. Intervening in childhood can significantly reduce the long-term risks, preserving eye health and lowering the chance of serious conditions in adulthood.
 

Myopia Management Options

Fortunately, advancements in eye care now provide effective strategies to help slow the progression of myopia in children and young adults. These include:

• Specialty contact lenses such as orthokeratology (Ortho-K) and soft multifocal lenses.
• Prescription eye drops like low-dose atropine, which have been shown to slow eye growth.
• Lifestyle adjustments including reducing screen time, encouraging outdoor activities, and taking frequent visual breaks.

Safeguard Your Child’s Eye Health at Primera Eye Care

Progressive myopia a condition that can impact lifelong vision. By understanding the risks and taking action early, families can help protect their children’s eyesight for years to come.
 

If your child has been diagnosed with myopia, schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Primera Eye Care and learn about the best management options for protecting long-term eye health. Contact our office in Lake Mary, Florida, by calling (321) 343-5300 or text (407) 821-3345 to book an appointment today.