If your child is nearsighted, you may be wondering how to stop it from getting worse. Doctors call this myopia control or myopia management. The goal is to slow down the eye's growth, which can help prevent serious eye problems in the future. Here are the best ways to manage nearsightedness in kids.
Atropine Eye Drops
Doctors often prescribe low-dose atropine eye drops (0.05%) to slow myopia progression by about 50%. These drops are usually applied before bedtime. Some children may experience mild side effects, like sensitivity to light or trouble seeing up close, but these can often be managed by wearing sunglasses outside or using reading glasses when needed.
Special Contact Lenses
- Ortho-K (Orthokeratology): These special contact lenses are worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea. They allow clear vision during the day without glasses or contact lenses and can slow myopia by at least 50%.
- Soft Multifocal Lenses: These daytime contact lenses have a special design that helps slow down myopia progression. Brands like MiSight One Day have been shown to be effective.
Special Glasses for Myopia Control
New eyeglass lenses, such as Essilor Stellest, Hoya MiYOSMART, and SightGlass DOT, have been shown to slow myopia when worn full-time. However, availability depends on where you live, so check with your eye doctor.
Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy is being researched as a possible way to slow myopia, but more studies are needed to confirm its safety and effectiveness.
Cost Considerations
The cost of myopia control depends on the treatment. Atropine drops may cost $10–$50 per month, while special contact lenses or glasses can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. While it can be expensive, investing in your child’s eye health now may help prevent serious vision problems in the future.
Regular eye check-ups are important to track changes and ensure the treatment is working. Talk to your eye doctor to find the best option for your child.
