Myopia Management: How Early Treatment Can Slow Nearsightedness Progression

Nearsightedness, or myopia, is a growing concern among children and teens across the country. As more young people spend time on screens and engage in close-up activities, the number of kids diagnosed with myopia continues to rise. Left untreated, myopia often gets worse over time, increasing the risk for serious eye conditions later in life, including retinal detachment, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Early intervention with myopia management strategies can slow the progression of nearsightedness and help protect your child’s long-term vision.

What Is Myopia?

Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long from front to back, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This makes distant objects appear blurry while nearby objects remain clear. Children may squint, hold books very close, or struggle to see the board at school - all signs that they could be developing myopia.
 

Why Early Myopia Management Is Essential

Children’s eyes are still developing, which means myopia can progress rapidly if left unchecked. Starting treatment early (before the prescription increases significantly) can make a real difference. Not only does it help slow down vision changes, but it also reduces the risk of eye health complications in adulthood. At Essential Eyes Columbia, we offer the latest evidence-based solutions to help manage and slow myopia progression. 

MiSight® 1 day Contact Lenses

MiSight 1 day lenses are the first and only FDA-approved daily contact lens proven to slow myopia progression in children aged 8-12. These soft lenses are worn during the day and are designed specifically for kids, offering comfort, safety, and ease of use. Clinical studies show that MiSight lenses can reduce the rate at which myopia worsens, helping to preserve your child’s vision.
 

Atropine Eye Drops

Low-dose atropine eye drops are another effective option for managing myopia. Used once daily at bedtime, these prescription drops have been shown to slow the elongation of the eye that causes nearsightedness. Atropine drops are safe, well-tolerated, and can be a great choice for children who are not ready for contact lenses.

Multifocal Contact Lenses or Eyeglasses

Multifocal contact lenses and eyeglasses provide different zones of focus, which can help slow the progression of myopia by reducing the strain that contributes to eye growth. Multifocal lenses are a good option for children who already wear contacts or glasses for vision correction.

Choosing the Right Approach

Every child is unique, and the best myopia management plan depends on age, prescription, lifestyle, and eye health. Our doctors at Essential Eyes Columbia work closely with families to tailor a treatment plan that fits your child’s needs, preferences, and daily routine.

Ready to Take Control of Your Child’s Eye Health?

Myopia is a progressive condition that requires proactive care. Early intervention with proven myopia management tools, such as MiSight 1 day contact lenses, atropine eye drops, and multifocal lenses, can help your child maintain clearer vision now and reduce risks in the future.

Schedule a pediatric eye exam with Essential Eyes Columbia and discover how early myopia management treatment can make all the difference. Visit our office in Columbia, Tennessee, or call (931) 380-2660 to book an appointment today.