In today’s digital age, children and adults alike spend more time than ever in front of screens. While technology has made life more convenient, it has also led to a rise in myopia, or nearsightedness. But many patients ask: can myopia caused by screen time be reversed?
Understanding Myopia
Myopia occurs when the eyeball becomes too long or the cornea curves too steeply, causing light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it. This results in blurry distance vision. The condition typically develops during childhood and tends to worsen as the eye continues to grow.
The Link Between Screen Time and Myopia
Studies have shown that excessive screen time and limited outdoor activity can increase the risk of developing myopia. When the eyes are constantly focused on close-up tasks, it places prolonged strain on the focusing muscles. Over time, this can encourage elongation of the eye, leading to or worsening myopia.
Can Myopia Be Reversed?
Unfortunately, once the eye has physically changed shape, myopia cannot be reversed. However, the progression of myopia can be slowed or managed effectively with proper treatment and lifestyle adjustments.
At Specialty Eye, our optometrists specialize in myopia management - a proactive approach that helps preserve vision and reduce long-term risks of eye diseases associated with high myopia, such as retinal detachment and glaucoma.
Myopia Management Options
Modern optometric care offers several strategies to manage myopia progression:
• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) Lenses: Specially designed contact lenses worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea, providing clear daytime vision without lenses or glasses.
• Smart Contact Lenses: FDA-approved soft lenses engineered with advanced optical technology to gently manage how light focuses on the retina, helping slow the progression of myopia in children while providing clear, comfortable vision throughout the day.
• Atropine Eye Drops: Low-dose atropine has been shown to slow eye growth in children developing nearsightedness.
Schedule a Myopia Management Consultation Today
Screen time is a significant factor in the growing prevalence of myopia, but the good news is that effective myopia management can help slow its progression. By partnering with your optometrist and taking proactive steps, you can help protect your or your child’s eyesight for years to come.
Schedule a pediatric eye exam at Specialty Eye to learn more about personalized myopia management options. Contact our offices in Kirkland or Bellevue, Washington, visit our website, call (425) 821-8900, (425) 800-5240, or (425) 454-2028 to book an appointment today.
