Effective Ways to Slow the Progression of Myopia

August 29, 2022

Ever had trouble focusing on faraway objects? Myopia is a condition that causes this issue with focusing. More than 20 percent of the world’s entire population has this problem, and it is possible to slow down its progression in children and adolescents. 
What are some ways of slowing down the progression of myopia?

Increase the Time You Spend Outside

One sure way to increase myopia is spending too much time focusing on your computer and working. You need to take a break from time to time and apply the 20-20-20 rule. It states that for every 20 minutes you spend on a computer, stop, and look around for 20 seconds. During this time, focus on objects 20 feet away from you.

When you do this, your eyes relax, and you exercise their muscles. They stay strong and can effectively focus on a distance. The better way to do this is to take a break and walk outside. Here, you can focus on objects farther than 20 feet away. Your eye muscles also readjust to the sunlight, making them strong and effective.

Using Atropine Eye Drops

Studies show that this method is 81 percent effective in decreasing myopia progression in children. The use of atropine eye drops is primarily dilating the pupil before eye exams. The eye drops allow the eye to accommodate more light.

The atropine blocks acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that causes the muscles to relax. The pupil can dilate, which reduces fatigue from focusing on objects at a distance. As the eye accommodates more light, you can better see objects at a distance. Hence, the eyeball doesn’t need to elongate.

Multifocal Contact Lenses

These lenses work similarly to eyeglasses. However, remember that you need a contact lens fitting. The power of eyeglass lenses is not directly proportional to contact lenses. 
The lenses have full focusing power in the center but less power in the periphery. The lower strength ensures that light entering the eye focuses on the retina. It stops the elongation of the eye as it tries to accommodate the light. 

Orthokeratology

Orthokeratology or ortho-k uses rigid gas-permeable lenses to correct myopia and slow its progression. You wear the lenses at night and, as you sleep, they temporarily change the shape of your cornea. They flatten it, allowing you to see clearly during the day.

As time progresses, the eyeball elongation stops, and the doctor can provide you with lenses to maintain the shape of the cornea. You will still have to wear these lenses during the night. When you stop wearing ortho-k lenses, your cornea returns to shape, and the elongation of the eye will continue.

For more information on ways to slow down the progression of myopia, visit Eye Associates of New York at our New York, New York office. Call (212) 650-4888 to schedule an appointment today.