Vision Therapy in Durham

Myopia FAQs

(860) 349-2323

1. What is Myopia?

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a common condition in which distant objects appear blurry while close-up objects remain clear. Myopia tends to progress until around the age of 21, and during this time, a child's vision deteriorates, often requiring more frequent updates of their corrective lenses.

young girl doing homework


girl in eye exam

2. What Causes Myopia Progression?

The exact causes of myopia progression are not fully understood, but several factors have been associated with it:

  • Myopia tends to run in families, so if parents are nearsighted, their children are more likely to develop myopia.
  • Extensive studying, reading, and activities that involve focusing on nearby objects can contribute to myopia progression.
  • The increasing use of electronic devices, especially when held close to the eyes, is thought to play a role in myopia development.
  • Spending less time outdoors may increase the risk of myopia progression.

3. Why is Myopia Progression a Concern?

The progression of myopia is concerning as it's strongly associated with an increased risk of ocular diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and retinal detachment later in life.


4. What If My Child Wears Glasses or Soft Contact Lenses?

Even if your child regularly wears glasses or soft contact lenses to correct their myopia, the condition may continue to progress. Conventional corrective methods often address symptoms but don't tackle the root cause, which involves the elongation of the eyeball.


5. How Can I Prevent My Child's Vision from Getting Worse?

To help prevent myopia progression, consider making lifestyle changes, including:

Reducing Screen Time: Limit screen time, and encourage breaks during prolonged use of digital devices.

Encouraging Frequent Breaks While Studying: Ensure your child takes regular breaks when studying or reading.

Increasing Outdoor Play: Encourage outdoor activities and playtime.

Adjusting Their Study Posture: Ensure proper posture during near work, avoiding sitting too close to screens or materials. 

Additional treatment may be necessary, depending on the level of your child’s myopia. Some of these options may include:

  • Atropine Drops
  • Orthokeratology (ortho-k)
  • Dual Focus Contact Lenses

6. What Is Orthokeratology?

Orthokeratology, or ortho-k, is a non-surgical procedure designed to reduce nearsightedness. It involves the therapeutic application of specially designed contact lenses to reshape the cornea, the front part of the eye, overnight. This can effectively correct nearsightedness and certain types of astigmatism.

Ortho-k offers a promising solution for managing progressive myopia while providing the freedom of being glasses or contact lens-free during the day. Clinical studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing myopia progression, thus reducing the risk of ocular diseases.


mom reading book to child

7. Is Myopia Management Suitable for Adults or Only for Children?

Myopia management strategies are often most effective when initiated during childhood, as this is when myopia tends to progress most rapidly. However, certain approaches, such as orthokeratology (ortho-k), may also benefit adults. It's crucial to consult your Durham Family Eye Care eye doctor to determine the best approach for your specific situation.


8. How Often Should My Child's Eyes Be Examined for Myopia Progression?

Regular eye examinations are essential to monitor myopia progression. The frequency of these exams will depend on your child's age, myopia severity, and risk factors. Annual eye check-ups are generally recommended, but some cases may require more frequent visits.


9. Are There Any Side Effects or Risks Associated with Myopia Management Treatments?

Most myopia management treatments are safe and non-invasive, but awareness of potential side effects is essential. For instance, ortho-k lenses may cause temporary discomfort or dryness. Atropine eye drops may lead to increased sensitivity to light. Your Durham Family Eye Care eye doctor will discuss these potential side effects and help you decide on the right approach for your child.

Patient Reviews
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19 Reviews
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- Oct. 18, 2024
My first time. Great experience with eye exam with Dr. Arnista. Kalli in the "eye-glass shop" area w... as also excellent. Overall, excellent experience.
- Sep. 18, 2024
The office is easy to work with and the staff is always polite and professional.
- Apr. 19, 2024
I have been a patient here since 2009 and I have nothing but excellent things to say about them. Th... e staff are all very nice, knowledgeable, professional and do everything they can to get you the care you need with the least amount of cost to the patient. I have 3 different eye insurance plans and they have always consulted them to see where I can get the best "deal". Dr. Sites is amazing and always explains everything in a way that I can understand. I highly recommend them! Thank you Durham Family Eye Care!!
- Dec. 08, 2022
I've been going here for quite a few years. I've never had a negative experience. The staff are wond... erful. They are so accommodating if you need to run in to have your glasses fixed or even to order another pair WITHOUT an appointment. The exams are quick and thorough. If you need or want an earlier appointment that the one given you're put on a 'stanby' list and you get a call or text as soon as someone cancels and are offered that appointment if you can take it. All insurance is excepted, included State of CT. I hope this review helps you to decide if this practice is the right one for you. I definitely reccomend going here.
- Apr. 14, 2021
Best eye exam and glasses purchase experience in many years. Entire staff was very professional, at... tentive to details and was never felt rushed. Will definitely be coming back here for future eye care.
- Apr. 09, 2021
Everyone at this office is super friendly, knowledgeable, willing and able to explain everything in ... a way patients can understand. They are up to date with tech and getting digital imaging of the back of the eye. I recommended them to one of my Neuro diverse clients and they also had a good experience there.
- Jun. 29, 2019
Love this place. Stopped in to make an appointment (haven't had my eyes checked in my entire adult l... ife), was able to get an appointment the same week. Was told 1.5 weeks to receive my glasses and they were in, in only 4 days! They worked with both my medical and eye insurance to get me the best price. They doctor was amazing, most soft spoken doctor I've ever met, very nice. She walked me through the entire exam and made sure i was comfortable the entire time. I have never had this great of an experience in any other doctors office! 5 stars. Would definitely recommend using them!
- Aug. 17, 2018
Dr Sites is absolutely amazing. She diagnosed an eye issue in my son at age 5 and worked extremely h... ard to improve his eye sight. Initial diagnose was by middle school even with glasses he wouldn't be able to see 20/20. And with years of hard work, he sees 20/20 with his prescription. The staff is so courteous and kind and helpful. Everyone is great here. I can't think of any negative thing about this office.

View All 19 Reviews

Myopia Management in Durham

Our optometry practice in Durham

Photograph of Frances Sites
Hours
  • Monday 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm
  • Tuesday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Wednesday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Thursday 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm
  • Friday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • AARP
  • Aetna
  • Aetna Medicare
  • Anthem
  • BCBS Federal Employee Program
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Blue View Vision
  • Cigna
  • Cigna Vision
  • Davis Vision
  • EyeMed
  • FEP Blue Vision
  • Guardian
  • Harvard Pilgrim Health Care
  • Humana
  • Medicaid
  • Medicare
  • Meritain Health
  • MetLife
  • National Vision Administration (NVA)
  • Optum
  • Oxford
  • Premier Eye Care
  • Spectera
  • Superior Vision
  • UMR
  • United Healthcare
  • VSP
  • WellCare

man adjusting glasses

10. Is Myopia Management Expensive, and Does Insurance Cover It?

The cost of myopia management can vary based on the chosen treatment method and location. Some treatments, like ortho-k, may involve initial higher costs but could reduce long-term expenses related to prescription updates and potential eye health issues. Schedule an appointment with Durham Family Eye Care today to understand the specific costs and coverage options.

(860) 349-2323