Ortho-K, Atropine Drops, and More: Managing Myopia in Pasadena Children

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is becoming increasingly common in children. At Pupila Family Eye & Ear Care in Pasadena, we understand how important it is to address childhood myopia early to protect your child’s long-term vision. Thankfully, there are several effective ways to manage myopia progression, including Ortho-K lenses, atropine eye drops, and other innovative treatments.
 

Understanding Myopia in Children

Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long, causing light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it. This results in blurry distance vision. In children, myopia often gets worse over time, especially during growth spurts. Left untreated, progressive myopia can increase the risk of serious eye conditions later in life, such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.
 

That’s why early intervention is critical. The goal of myopia management is not just to correct vision, but to slow or even stop the condition from worsening.
 

Ortho-K: Gentle Vision Correction While Your Child Sleeps

Orthokeratology, commonly known as Ortho-K, involves specially designed contact lenses that are worn overnight. These lenses gently reshape the cornea while your child sleeps, providing clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or contacts.
 

Beyond convenience, Ortho-K has been clinically shown to slow the progression of myopia in children. It’s a great option for active kids who play sports or those who want a glasses-free lifestyle.
 

Atropine Eye Drops: A Simple Daily Treatment

Low-dose atropine eye drops are another effective tool for managing myopia in children. These drops are typically used once a day, and research has shown they can significantly reduce the rate of myopia progression.
 

Atropine treatment is especially useful for younger children or those who may not be ready for contact lenses. It’s a non-invasive option that can be easily integrated into your child’s daily routine.
 

Other Myopia Control Options

At Pupila Family Eye & Ear Care, we tailor myopia management to each child’s specific needs. In addition to Ortho-K and atropine, we may recommend:
 

• Multifocal Soft Contact Lenses: Designed to create a special focus pattern that slows myopia progression while also correcting vision.

• Lifestyle Modifications: Encouraging more outdoor play and limiting screen time can support overall eye health.

• Comprehensive Monitoring: Regular eye exams allow us to track changes and adjust treatment plans as needed.
   

Supporting Families in Pasadena

If your child is showing signs of nearsightedness or already wears glasses, now is the time to take action. We’re committed to helping families in Pasadena navigate myopia with proven, personalized treatments like Ortho-K, atropine eye drops, and more.
 

Ready to take the first step in managing your child’s myopia? Schedule a pediatric eye exam with Pupila Family Eye & Ear Care to learn more about our myopia control solutions. Visit our office in Pasadena, Texas, or call (281) 445-2021 to book an appointment today.