If your child is squinting, sitting too close to the TV, or struggling to see the whiteboard at school, they may be developing myopia, or nearsightedness. This common vision condition affects more children every year—and without proper treatment, it can worsen over time.
At iCare of Hanford, our experienced eye doctor in Hanford, CA specializes in myopia management for children. With early diagnosis and the right treatment, we can help slow progression and protect your child’s long-term vision.
What Is Myopia?
Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long from front to back, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of on it. This results in blurry distance vision, while close-up vision remains clear.
While glasses and contact lenses correct vision, they don’t stop the eye from continuing to grow. As a result, untreated myopia can lead to more serious eye health issues later in life, including:
- Retinal detachment
- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
- Myopic macular degeneration
That’s why early intervention from a qualified eye doctor in Hanford, CA is essential.
What Causes Myopia in Children?
Several risk factors increase the likelihood of myopia in kids:
- Family history of nearsightedness
- Increased screen time and near work (like reading or tablet use)
- Limited outdoor time, which research shows may protect against myopia
At iCare of Hanford, we take a comprehensive approach to vision care—looking not just at your child’s current vision, but also their lifestyle and environmental risk factors.
Myopia Management Options at iCare of Hanford
We provide advanced myopia control treatments designed specifically for children. Our personalized approach may include:
- Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)
These custom-fitted lenses are worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea, allowing for clear daytime vision without glasses. Ortho-K is proven to slow myopia progression in children. - MiSight® 1 Day Soft Contact Lenses
FDA-approved for children ages 8–12, MiSight® lenses correct vision while also slowing the progression of myopia. - Low-Dose Atropine Eye Drops
Used nightly, these drops help reduce the eye’s growth rate and are effective in managing myopia in children. - Lifestyle & Vision Coaching
We educate families on simple changes—like increasing outdoor playtime and reducing screen use—that support healthy vision development.
Why Choose Our Eye Doctor in Hanford, CA for Myopia Care?
At iCare of Hanford, we are proud to offer specialized pediatric vision services grounded in experience, advanced technology, and compassionate care. Dr. [Insert OD Name] and our eyecare team are committed to educating parents and designing the most effective treatment plan for each child.
Our pediatric eye exams are designed to detect early vision issues and build a foundation for lifelong eye health. We make it easy for families in Hanford and the surrounding areas to access trusted myopia care close to home.
FAQs About Myopia in Children
- At what age should my child be screened for myopia?
- Children should receive a comprehensive eye exam at age 6 months, again at 3 years, and yearly once they enter school. If you notice any vision concerns, schedule an exam sooner.
- Does my child need treatment if they already wear glasses?
- Yes. Glasses correct vision, but they don’t prevent myopia from worsening. A myopia management plan can help slow progression and reduce future risks.
- Is myopia management covered by insurance?
- Coverage varies. Our staff will walk you through your options and provide guidance on affordable payment plans.