Myopia (nearsightedness) is a vision disorder where a person can see nearby objects clearly but has difficulty distinguishing distant objects. Several methods can be used to correct and manage myopia. Here are the main recommendations:

VISION CORRECTION

1. Glasses:

• The most common and simple method of correction.
• Easily adjustable depending on the degree of myopia.

2. Contact lenses:

• Provide more natural vision and freedom of movement compared to glasses.
• Require careful maintenance and adherence to hygiene rules.

3. Orthokeratology (night contact lenses):

• Special rigid gas-permeable lenses worn at night.
• Temporarily change the shape of the cornea, providing good vision during the day without the need for glasses or contact lenses.

SURGICAL TREATMENT

1. Laser Vision Correction (LASIK, PRK, SMILE):

• Procedures that reshape the cornea, allowing light to focus correctly on the retina.
• Effective for correcting mild to moderate myopia.

2. Implantation of phakic intraocular lenses (IOL):

• Suitable for people with high myopia or those with very thin corneas for laser correction.
• Lenses are implanted inside the eye and remain there permanently.

CONTROL OF MYOPIA PROGRESSION

1. Atropine sulfate eye drops:

• Low doses of atropine can slow the progression of myopia in children.

2. Orthokeratology:

• In addition to temporary vision correction, it can slow the progression of myopia.

3. Multifocal contact lenses or glasses:

• Specially designed for myopia management, they can help slow its development.

LIFESTYLE AND PREVENTION

1. Limiting screen time:

• Alternating computer or gadget use with breaks.
• The “20-20-20” rule is recommended: every 20 minutes, look at an object 20 feet (about 6 meters) away for 20 seconds.

2. Adequate lighting:

• Working in good lighting helps reduce eye strain.

3. Increasing time outdoors:

• Studies show that children who spend more time outside have a lower risk of developing myopia.

REGULAR EXAMINATIONS

Periodic visits to an ophthalmologist:

• Regular eye check-ups to monitor the condition and timely correction.

Myopia requires an individualized approach to treatment and correction. It is important to discuss all possible options with an ophthalmologist to choose the most suitable method considering the degree of myopia, the patient’s age, and lifestyle.

For vision diagnostics, contact the Filatov Institute: Frantsuzkіy Bulvar 49/51, Odesa, Ukraine