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CHILDHOOD MYOPIA IN MELBOURNE

MYOPIA (Short – Sightedness)

Myopia is a condition in which people can see near objects clearly and distant objects appear blurred. This occurs due to abnormal growth of the eyeball that occurs in school age children and progresses through adolescence.

As a result of the excessive eye growth light rays are not focused on to the retina but in front, resulting in blurred vision. Glasses or contact lenses are then required to focus light rays back on to the retina for clear vision.

Causative Factors Include:

  • Reduced exposure to sunlight.
  • Excessive near work/screen time for prolonged periods.
  • Genetic predisposition.

Why is It Important?

Limiting the progression of myopia reduces the risk of associated eye problems such as retinal detachment, myopic macular degeneration and Glaucoma.

Effective Treatment

Low dose atropine eye drops prevents myopia progression. This low concentration is safe and effective in reducing excessive eye growth. Glasses (or contact lenses) are still needed, but are weaker than would normally be required.


Six monthly follow up is important so treatment can be modified as needed. You should commit to daily instillation of the eye drops in both eyes. Studies have shown that the improvement persists even after stopping the eye drop.

Other Things You Can Do to Prevent Myopia Worsening

  • Many studies have shown that spending more time outdoors, at least 90 minutes per day, limits excessive eye growth. Spending time outdoors also reduces screen time usage.
  • Try to limit your child’s time in front of computer, phone/tablets and take breaks while using them.
  • Other treatment options include ortho-K contact lenses and peripheral defocus spectacles, which sometimes can be used in conjunction with drops. There is no treatment that will always be effective for every child but we are able to achieve 70% reduction of myopia progression.

When Should I Consult an Eye Specialist?

You should arrange an eye examination for myopia if there is:

  • Family history of myopia /glasses.
  • When you notice your child is squinting/straining eyes to focus.
  • Difficulty seeing the board at school or needing to sit very close to see clearly.

WE’RE HERE TO HELP! SIMPLY CALL 03 9525 9455 TO DISCUSS YOUR REQUIREMENTS

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