Nearsightedness, also known as myopia, is a refractive error that typically develops when you are young. It is characterized by difficulty in seeing distant objects clearly while objects nearby still look sharp. Studies have shown that atropine eye drops can be used to slow the progression of myopia in children. Read on as your friendly optometrist from the Myopia Institute explains more:
How Myopia Develops
Myopia occurs when the distance between the back and front of the eyes is longer than normal. The exact reason behind this irregularity is still a gray area. However, researchers believe that genetics and performing close-up work for long hours may be a risk factor. Reading and sewing for hours at a time may tax the eyes accommodation skills and lead to the eyeballs stretching.
How Atropine Eye Drops Work
Atropine is an anticholinergic substance. Applying atropine eye drops dilates the pupils and temporarily paralyzes the focusing muscle inside the eye. It also relaxes the eyes’ focusing mechanisms. Research has suggested that myopia in children may be connected to focusing fatigue so using atropine can control myopia by disabling the focusing mechanism. The suggested dosage for atropine eye drops is 0.01 percent to minimize the risk of side effects. Ask your eye doctor if this myopia control method is right for you or your children.
Other Ways to Manage Myopia
Since research on the effectiveness of atropine eye drops in controlling myopia is still ongoing, it’s important for you to be familiar with alternative myopia control methods. For example, using distance center multifocal soft contact lenses can slow down myopia progression. Bifocal and multifocal eyeglasses are another possible option. You can also use orthokeratology lenses. You wear these lenses before you sleep and remove them when you wake up. You will then have clearer vision for the rest of the day.
We have been providing information on scientifically proven effective methods of myopia control to concerned patients since 2012. The methods we support are backed by peer-reviewed studies. Call us at (301) 363-0060 to learn more about our services or to learn more about myopia. You can also use our site to find eye doctors who can serve you in Rockville or nearby areas in MD.