Vision Therapy in Camdenton

Myopia FAQs

(573) 346-5951

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.ย 

Additional treatment may be necessary, depending on the level of your childโ€™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 Family Eyecare - Camdenton 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 Family Eyecare - Camdenton 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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379 Reviews
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- Oct. 13, 2024
Very Helpful and Friendly. They know what they are doing.
- Oct. 04, 2024
The family at Family Eyecare was incredibly helpful and knowledgable. They worked with me to get an ... appointment quickly and helped me understand my vision needs. I felt confident leaving and Thank you very much Family Eyecare.
- Oct. 01, 2024
Amazing, kind staff!
- Sep. 17, 2024
Great doctor and staff.
- Sep. 02, 2024
Dr Eveland got me out of bifocal glasses I never should have been put into in the first place and go... t me into specific glasses I needed for working on a computer all day. Now my glasses work perfectly for me and see everything clearly.
- Aug. 28, 2024
Great Dr. and staff.
- Aug. 17, 2024
Terrific doc and staff. They WILL try to sell you new frames when you visit, but hey, thatโ€™s their... job. Prices are as reasonable as any medical care provider and the staff works to wrap their discounts around your situation as much as possible.
- Aug. 15, 2024
Called 10+ locations for weeks to find an eye doctor that would see my 3 year old, finally scheduled... with Family EyeCare after a recommendation from my father and they got him in within a week. The entire staff was very kind and accommodating. My son loved going here and looks forward to going back to pick up his glasses!
- Jul. 22, 2024
Friendly and helpful
- Jun. 28, 2024
Dr. Eveland is patient, thorough and professional! Danielle is always helpful, efficient and cheerfu... l! Facility is clean and well organized.
- Jun. 23, 2024
Excellent and friendly customer service!!
- Jun. 23, 2024
Our eyecare provider for over 20 years.
- Jun. 16, 2024
Completely satisfied with Dr Eveland and the staff at Family Eyecare in Camdenton! Susan Bubac
- Jun. 10, 2024
Friendly helpful staff. They patient and kind to my 6 year old daughter and always make her feel spe... cial and important.
- Jun. 03, 2024
This is a wonderful facility. Dr. Eveland and his staff are fantastic and are truly concerned and ca... re about me and my family. We all see Dr. Eveland.
- May. 24, 2024
Everyone is very helpful & nice. Danielle the Optician who helped me was super friendly and helpful ... on picking out my new glasses & what I needed for my new glasses ๐Ÿ‘“. Even my payment was very easy also. I was in & out in no time. When I even picked up my glasses even the girl who brought them out to me was very nice and made sure my glasses ๐Ÿ‘“ fitted me perfectly.
- May. 02, 2024
Super friendly group that made you feel like you were priority
- Apr. 27, 2024
Very comprehensive care great staff
- Apr. 15, 2024
The doctors and staff are very friendly, they made sure my family history was noted, they went over ... my personal history and made sure I received everything I needed for my best care. Highly recommend this eye care center to anyone needing an exam and or eyeglasses.
- Apr. 13, 2024
All of the staff are always so friendly and helpful.

View All 379 Reviews

Myopia Management in Camdenton

Our optometry practice in Camdenton

Photograph of Brian  Eveland
Hours
  • Monday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tuesday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thursday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • Spectera
  • Superior Vision
  • Davis Vision
  • EyeMed
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield

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 Family Eyecare - Camdenton today to understand the specific costs and coverage options.

(573) 346-5951