Controlling Visual Changes

Myopia is a refractive error that commonly develops in younger people between the ages of 6 and 18. Also known as nearsightedness, myopia occurs when the eye grows in an irregular shape, changing the way that light is focused through the eye. This makes it difficult to see far-away objects clearly.

Our team at LaFerla Family Eye Care can recognize myopia during a children’s eye exam. We are constantly sourcing eyewear solutions, like MiSight Lenses, that have been shown to slow down the progression of myopia. The first step in diagnosing this condition in our young patients with a visit to our office.

The Myopic Eye

A normally shaped eye has a perfectly smooth spherical curvature (like a marble). An eye with myopia is too long or has a cornea that’s too steep (cone-shaped). This refraction angle can cause light to land in front of the retina, creating blurry distant vision.

Myopia is becoming increasingly common for kids in North America and is related to several other health risks.

Causes & Symptoms of Myopia

The Causes

Nearly 30% of Americans are affected by myopia. Myopia often occurs naturally as a hereditary condition, but other factors can contribute:

Near-vision work like heavy reading or time on a computer
Nighttime conditions that make focusing more difficult

The Symptoms

The most obvious symptom of nearsightedness is an inability to focus on faraway objects. In other words, weak long-distance vision. But other more subtle signs may include:

Constant squinting
Perpetual headaches and eye fatigue
Eye pain
Short attention span
Losing place when reading

Let’s Slow Myopia Progression

Although myopia currently has no cure, there are effective methods available that can slow its progression. LaFerla Family Eye Care looks for myopia during all children’s eye examinations. If we determine your child is showing symptoms, we can further explore myopia control methods.

If your child has myopia, please book an appointment with our clinic. Our optometrist can determine the severity of your child’s myopia and discuss the best options for corrective or controlling eyewear.

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Our Location

Wanna see what we are all about?

Located right off of NW Barry Rd in Kansas City, our office is a balance between clinical, high tech, high fashion, and your friend’s cozy living room.

Where to park?

LaFerla Family Eye Care is located right across the street from Park Hill High School in Kansas City. There is ample of parking right in front of the entrance of our establishment.