Ortho-K: Myopia Management While You Sleep

Myopia is a widespread condition, affecting an estimated 30% of the global population. It is particularly prevalent among children and young adults, with rates continuing to rise worldwide. As myopia progresses, it can lead to an increased risk of other vision-threatening conditions, such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and cataracts.

Causes and Symptoms of Myopia

There are several factors that can contribute to the development of myopia, including:
 

• Genetics: If one or both of your parents have myopia, you are more likely to develop the condition as well.
• Environmental factors: Spending too much time on close-up activities, such as reading, using digital devices, or working at a computer, can strain your eyes and lead to the progression of myopia.
• Age: Myopia typically begins in childhood and can continue to worsen during the teenage years.

The primary symptoms of myopia include:
 

• Blurred vision when looking at distant objects
• Frequent squinting or eye strain
• Headaches or eye fatigue after prolonged close-up work
• Difficulty seeing the board or screen in school or at work

The Importance of Myopia Management

Effectively managing myopia is crucial for maintaining good vision and eye health throughout your life. As myopia progresses, it can increase the risk of developing serious eye conditions, such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and cataracts. These conditions can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated.
 

By taking proactive steps to manage your myopia, you can slow down its progression and reduce the likelihood of these complications. This not only helps preserve your current vision but also protects your long-term eye health.
 

Exploring Ortho-K Lenses

One innovative approach to myopia management is Orthokeratology, or Ortho-K for short. Ortho-K is a non-surgical, reversible vision correction procedure that uses specially designed, gas-permeable contact lenses to temporarily reshape the cornea, the clear front part of your eye.

These Ortho-K lenses are worn overnight while you sleep, gently reshaping your cornea to improve your vision. During the day, you can go about your normal activities without the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses.

How Ortho-K Works for Myopia Management

The Ortho-K process works by applying gentle pressure to the cornea while you sleep, flattening the central portion and steepening the peripheral regions. This temporary reshaping of the cornea changes the way light focuses on the retina, effectively correcting your myopia. Here's how the Ortho-K process typically works:
 

• Comprehensive eye exam: Your eye care professional will conduct a thorough examination of your eyes to determine if you are a good candidate for Ortho-K.
• Custom lens fitting: They will then take precise measurements of your eyes and fit you with a set of custom-designed Ortho-K lenses.
• Overnight wear: You'll wear the Ortho-K lenses while you sleep, typically for 6-8 hours per night.
• Daytime vision correction: During the day, you can enjoy clear, sharp vision without the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses.
• Ongoing monitoring: Your eye care professional will regularly monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your Ortho-K lenses.

The effects of Ortho-K are temporary, meaning that your vision will gradually return to its pre-treatment state if you stop wearing the lenses. However, with consistent use, Ortho-K can effectively slow the progression of myopia, reducing the need for stronger prescriptions over time.

Is Ortho-K Right for You?

Myopia is a common vision condition that can have serious long-term consequences if left unchecked. However, with the help of innovative treatments like Ortho-K, you can take control of your myopia and protect your eye health for years to come.

By wearing Ortho-K lenses overnight, you can enjoy clear, sharp vision during the day without the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses. More importantly, Ortho-K can help slow the progression of your myopia, reducing the risk of developing vision-threatening conditions later in life.

If you're interested in exploring Ortho-K as a solution for your myopia, schedule a consultation with 20/20 Optometric of Fresno. We can help determine if Ortho-K is the right choice for you and guide you through the process of getting started. Visit our office in Fresno, California, or call (559) 221-8900 to book an appointment today.