Myopia Control in Edmonton: Evidence-based Solutions at McCormack Optometric Centre

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a refractive error that causes distant objects to appear blurry while nearby objects remain clear. Myopia control in Edmonton is a growing need, especially among school-aged children.

At McCormack Optometric Centre in Edmonton, we aim to provide evidence-based options for managing myopia progression through structured clinical care. Call us now.

Common Signs of Myopia

Early identification of myopia is crucial for long-term eye health. Children may not always communicate vision issues clearly, so it is essential to recognize early indicators.

Common symptoms of myopia include:

• Difficulty seeing distant objects, such as the whiteboard in a classroom
• Squinting or narrowing the eyes to improve clarity
• Headaches caused by eyestrain
• Excessive blinking or frequent eye rubbing
• Complaints of blurry distance vision, especially during outdoor activities

Parents and educators should be aware of these signs, as untreated myopia can affect academic performance and quality of life. Routine eye exams are recommended to identify vision issues before they progress.

Eyeglasses Vs. Contact Lenses for Myopia Control: Which Is Better?

Both eyeglasses and contact lenses are used in myopia control strategies, but their effectiveness can vary depending on the individual case. At McCormack Optometric Centre, our team recommends the most appropriate option based on a thorough assessment.

Eyeglasses:

• Typically prescribed for basic vision correction
• Myopia control eyeglasses may include special lens designs that slow eye elongation, which contributes to myopia progression.
• Easy to use and preferred for younger children due to ease of handling

Contact lenses:

• Options such as MiSight® 1 day contact lenses are clinically approved for myopia control in children.
• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses reshape the cornea overnight and are also shown to slow myopic progression.
• May offer better control outcomes for certain patients, especially those with higher activity levels or specific refractive errors

Does Myopia Get Worse with Age?

In most cases, myopia begins in childhood and progresses through the teenage years, typically stabilizing in early adulthood. However, progression can continue in some individuals, especially if left unmanaged.

Factors influencing myopia progression include:

• Genetic predisposition (family history of myopia)
• Prolonged near work (e.g., reading, tablet use)
• Limited exposure to outdoor daylight
• Inadequate corrective measures

While age is a common factor, environmental influences and lifestyle habits can also play a significant role. Continued monitoring and timely interventions can help manage the rate of progression and reduce the risk of high myopia-related complications, such as retinal detachment or glaucoma.

What to Expect During a Myopia Control Process in Edmonton?

At McCormack Optometric Centre, the myopia control process in Edmonton begins with a comprehensive eye examination. This includes an assessment of the patient's visual acuity, refractive error, and eye health. From this, a customized management plan is developed.

The myopia control process may involve:

• Baseline testing: Determining the initial prescription and axial length of the eye
• Lens fitting: If contact lenses or specialty eyeglasses are selected, the appropriate fitting and adjustment will be completed
• Education: Informing the patient and guardians about proper lens care, expected outcomes, and the importance of regular follow-up
• Monitoring: Scheduled follow-up visits to track progression and make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan

Common treatment options may include soft contact lenses like MiSight®, Ability, orthokeratology lenses, and myopia control spectacle lenses. McCormack Optometric in Edmonton also offer several other effective myopia management solutions:

1. AOK (Orthokeratology) Lenses

AOK lenses are specialized contact lenses worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea. By temporarily correcting myopia, they provide clear vision throughout the day while also slowing myopia progression.

2. Myopia Control Soft Contact Lenses

Designed specifically to manage myopia, these soft contact lenses provide clear vision while helping slow eye elongation. They are worn during the day and are a comfortable, convenient option for children and teens.

3. Atropine Eye Drops

Low-dose atropine eye drops are an effective way to slow myopia progression in children. They work by relaxing the eye's focusing muscles and reducing eye elongation.

4. Myopia Control Eyeglass Lenses

Specialized eyeglass lenses, such as multifocal or myopia control lenses, help reduce eye strain and slow the progression of myopia by optimizing focus at different distances.

Why Myopia Management Matters

High levels of myopia can increase the risk of serious eye conditions like retinal detachment and glaucoma. By choosing the right myopia control strategy, we can help protect long-term eye health.

Our optometrists will work closely with you to determine the most suitable treatment plan based on your child's individual needs. Schedule an eye exam today to explore the best myopia control options!

Contact Us Today!

At McCormack Optometric Centre, our team strives to offer clinically supported myopia control options in Edmonton tailored to each patient's needs. Regular assessments and evidence-based interventions are key to managing progression and maintaining optimal eye health.

For more information or to schedule an eye examination, contact McCormack Optometric Centre in Edmonton.

Schedule a Myopia Control Consultation Today