What can I do if my child is shortsighted?

What can I do if my child or teenager is shortsighted? 

Myopia or shortsight is an increasing vision problem worldwide and it is no different in Australia. Traditional corrections like sight correcting lenses do not slow down the increases, and recent studies indicate that in some individuals the progression may even be greater in glasses compared to no glasses at all.  The important thing to understand is that progression occurs with and without glasses and can result in more serious eye health consequences in adulthood.

One method of treatment is Ortho-K.

Orthokeratology or Ortho-K is a treatment that has been used by optometrists for many decades as a method to correct sight.  However, there has been growing evidence over the last 10 years or so that is demonstrating that Ortho-K slows down increases in myopia in children and teens when compared to more conventional methods of correction.

Orthokeratology is a type of contacts lens only worn at night fitted by an experienced practitioner. It is custom fitted to each and every patient, once they understand the pro’s and con’s, what alternatives are available and the necessary safety information.

The additional benefits on lifestyle are similar to contact lens wear.  The removal of spectacles has also been linked in contact lens studies to an improvement how teenagers view themselves and so has a positive impact on self esteem.   No glasses is easier for sport, particular in games where glasses are actively discouraged.