Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is becoming increasingly common among children. As screen time increases and outdoor activity declines, many parents in Enid, OK are asking an important question: when should my child begin myopia management?
At Advantage Eye Care, we provide myopia management for children to help slow the progression of nearsightedness and support long-term eye health.
Why Early Myopia Management Matters
- Myopia often develops between the ages of 6 and 12 and typically progresses more rapidly when it begins at a younger age.
- Managing myopia early may help reduce the risk of future vision and eye health concerns, including retinal detachment, glaucoma, and other complications associated with high myopia.
- If your child is squinting, sitting close to screens, or having difficulty seeing objects at a distance, it may be time to schedule a comprehensive eye exam.
What Is the Best Age for Myopia Control?
- Research shows that the most effective time to begin myopia management is typically between 6 and 10 years old, when children’s eyes are still developing.
- Starting treatment early allows the eyes to be more responsive to myopia control options.
- Myopia management can still benefit older children and teens by slowing progression and helping maintain more stable vision.
Myopia management options available at Advantage Eye Care include:
- Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea
- Specialty soft contact lenses designed to help slow eye growth
- Low-dose atropine eye drops, a non-invasive option often used for younger children
Myopia Management Options in Enid, OK
At Advantage Eye Care, our optometrist takes a personalized approach to myopia management. Each treatment plan is customized based on your child’s age, prescription, eye health, and daily activities.
In addition to clinical treatments, certain lifestyle habits may help support successful myopia management:
- Spending at least two hours outdoors each day
- Following the 20-20-20 rule during screen time
- Using proper lighting while reading or doing homework
To learn more about our full range of eye care services, including pediatric eye care, visit our website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age should my child start myopia treatment?
Most children benefit from starting myopia management between ages 6 and 10, or as soon as myopia is diagnosed during an eye exam.
Do I need a full eye exam if my child passed a school screening?
Yes. School vision screenings do not assess overall eye health. A comprehensive eye exam performed by a licensed optometrist provides a complete evaluation of your child’s vision and eye health.
Can myopia management stop nearsightedness completely?
Myopia management does not reverse nearsightedness, but it can significantly slow its progression and help preserve clearer, more stable vision over time.
Protect Your Child’s Vision Early
Beginning myopia management early may help support healthier vision as your child grows. At Advantage Eye Care, we are committed to providing child-friendly myopia management options for families throughout Enid, OK.
Schedule a myopia management consultation today by booking an appointment online or calling 580-308-3134. For more eye health education and updates, explore our Latest Vision Health News.