What Lifestyle Adjustments Can Help Your Myopia from Worsening?

Myopia is a common refractive error that affects the clarity of distance vision. Over the past few decades, myopia has become increasingly prevalent, especially among children and young adults. While genetics do play a role, many lifestyle habits also contribute to the progression of myopia. By making intentional adjustments to daily routines and incorporating effective treatment strategies like myopia management with orthokeratology (Ortho-K), you can help slow the progression of this condition.

Understanding Myopia Progression

Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long from front to back or when the cornea is too curved. This causes light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it, leading to blurry distance vision. As the eye continues to elongate, the severity of myopia increases. High levels of myopia are linked to an increased risk of serious eye conditions such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and myopic macular degeneration.

Lifestyle Adjustments That Can Help

Studies have shown that spending more time outdoorscan significantly reduce the risk of developing and worsening myopia. Aim for at least 90 minutes to two hours of outdoor activity each day.

Digital devices and near work (like reading or using a tablet) contribute to eye strain and may accelerate myopia progression. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

Maintain a healthy visual environment by ensuring proper lighting when reading or doing close-up work. Avoid reading in dim light or lying down while using electronic devices, as these habits can strain your eyes unnecessarily.

Keep books and devices at a comfortable distance from your eyes, typically about 14–16 inches. Sit upright and maintain a proper ergonomic setup when working on a computer or doing homework.

The Importance of Myopia Management with Ortho-K

Lifestyle changes are valuable, but for individuals with progressing myopia, proactive treatment is essential. One of the most effective options is orthokeratology (Ortho-K), a non-surgical method using specially designed gas-permeable contact lenses worn overnight. These lenses gently reshape the cornea while you sleep, temporarily correcting vision for the next day and helping to slow the eye’s elongation over time.

Ortho-K is especially beneficial for children and teens whose eyes are still developing. In addition to clear daytime vision without glasses or contacts, Ortho-K has been clinically shown to reduce the progression of myopia, making it a powerful tool in long-term eye health.

Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam Today

While myopia is becoming more common, it doesn't have to progress unchecked. By making simple lifestyle adjustments and seeking out effective treatment options like Ortho-K, you can take control of your eye health and protect your vision for the future.

Schedule your child’s eye exam at Eyecare Experts to learn if Ortho-K is right for them. Contact our office in Houston, Sugar Land, or Stafford, Texas, by calling (346) 220-3200 to book an appointment today.