Treatment

Myopia control

Medical reviewer Mr Mohamed Mohyudin· Last recorded site review

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What myopia control is

Short-sightedness (myopia) often increases during childhood as the eye grows longer. Standard glasses clear vision but do not stop progression. Myopia control treatments aim to slow that lengthening, reducing future prescription strength and long-term risks linked to high myopia.

Orthokeratology (ortho-k)

Special rigid lenses worn overnight temporarily reshape the cornea for clear daytime vision without glasses. Ortho-k is a recognised myopia control option in suitable children, though strict hygiene and specialist fitting are essential because overnight wear carries infection risk if care is poor.

Atropine drops and other options

Low-dose atropine eye drops, used nightly under specialist supervision, can slow myopia progression in many children. Special soft multifocal or dual-focus contact lenses are another option. Your clinician will discuss benefits, side effects such as light sensitivity, and which approach fits your child.

Outdoor time and lifestyle

WHO and NEI-aligned guidance links more outdoor time — often around 90 minutes or more daily when possible — with lower myopia risk. Balanced screen habits, good reading distance and regular eye exams help too. Myopia control works best when started early, before prescriptions become very high.

Conditions this can help

Short-sightednessA very common focusing problem where distant objects look blurred; corrected with glasses, lenses or surgery.Amblyopia (lazy eye)Reduced vision in one eye that did not develop normally in childhood; most treatable when caught early.

Frequently asked questions

Can you stop myopia getting worse in children?

You cannot always stop it completely, but ortho-k, low-dose atropine, special contact lenses and more outdoor time can slow progression significantly in many children.

Is ortho-k the same as myopia control?

Ortho-k is one myopia control method. It also gives glasses-free daytime vision, but it must be fitted and monitored by a specialist.

How much outdoor time helps prevent myopia?

Research supports roughly 90 minutes or more of outdoor activity daily when possible. Outdoor light and distance viewing are thought to help, alongside limiting very long near work.

Your next step

Take this to your appointment

Write down what has changed, when it started, your current medicines and the questions you want answered. Take these to your eye-care appointment.

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Sudden loss of sight, severe eye pain or a dark curtain across vision needs immediate assessment. Do not wait to complete a worksheet.

Sources for this information

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