Tauranga Eyecare by Langford Callard » Myopia Management and Control
adaption of environmental factors-there is some evidence that spending at least 2 hours a day outside in natural lighting may decrease the onset of myopia but may little role once myopia is established.
spectacle lenses-traditional spectacle lenses correct myopia by focusing light directly on the central retina to give a clear image-however the peripheral retina remains unfocused and it is thought that this is a driver for the eye to continue growing leading to increased myopia. Specially designed spectacle lenses -Myovision-have been developed to reduce this peripheral blur and the major lens companies are developing more options in this area. This is a good option for children who are not suitable for contact lens wear although not as effective as other forms of control. Also children who have problems with eye coordination with reading tasks may benefit from the prescribing of progressive addition spectacle lenses or specialised bifocal lenses.
atropine-low concentration atropine drops (0.01-0.02%) have a positive effect. The exact mechanism of effect is under going extensive research around the world but atropine probably affects a receptor in the retinal tissue signalling the eye to stop going excessively. Drops need to be instilled nightly and can be used in conjunction with other treatment modalities. Atropine drops at this concentration are not commercially available so will need to formulated by a specialised compounding pharmacy.