Myopia, or near-sightedness, is a condition in which the eye is too long to focus distance images clearly. In children with growing eyes, this condition tends to get worse every year (or sooner). Children whose parents have myopia are more likely to develop it, as well as those who do not spend enough time outdoors, spend long hours reading or playing on digital devices, or spend lots of time in dim lighting. 

In the long term, if myopia is left unmanaged it may lead to increased dependence on glasses or contacts, earlier cataracts, or even glaucoma, myopic maculopathy, or retinal detachment. 

These days, there are several ways to manage myopia in children who are at risk for these complications. Here at Harvard Square Eye Care, we use the only FDA approved myopia control method: Misight contact lenses. Misight are daily disposable soft contact lenses to be used in place of glasses – just like regular contact lenses. These lenses have been shown to decrease the progression of myopia by an average of 59%, and can be more compatible with an active lifestyle than glasses.

If you are interested in learning more about myopia management, or feel your child may be eligible, book an appointment today for a comprehensive eye exam in any of our offices. 

Patients often do not know there is an eye problem! When these diseases are caught early, it helps to prevent vision loss! If you want to ensure a lifetime of optimal eye health and visual acuity for yourself and your family members, there’s no better place to start than by scheduling regular eye and vision exams here at Harvard Square Eye Care. We believe strongly in the value of preventative care and early detection as a key element in preserving in our patients’ eyesight. Unlike a vision screening or other general eye test, comprehensive eye exams evaluate the entire health of the eye. They also help the optometrist or ophthalmologist determine your unique prescription. Comprehensive eye exams should begin as an infant to ensure proper eye and vision development. Ongoing eye health examinations at regular intervals are also important as many eye diseases and vision changes can occur without warning signs.

Regular eye exams are a crucial component of health care in young children that often is not given the attention it demands. Most children will have healthy and normal-functioning eyes, but there is always a risk for eye disease or damage, most of which are more easily treatable in children than in adults, which is why annual pediatric eye exams are so important.
Children have vision needs that go beyond simply ‘needing glasses.’ Our optometrists are trained to detect, diagnose, and treat many complications that can occur as a child’s eye matures. Additionally, our eye exams are specifically catered to children. Our experienced, caring doctors and staff strive to create a kid-friendly atmosphere and carry a full line of frames for infants, children, and young adults.

All of our optometrists on staff are trained to diagnose and treat any type of issue that can arise in regards to ocular health. Common problems such as dry eye, red eyes (pink eye), keratoconus, bacterial conjunctivitis, allergies, and contact lens discomfort, can be easily relieved and our experienced doctors will take the time and care to ensure your optimal eye health. Our doctors regularly see patients with symptoms such as flashing lights, floaters, or other visual changes that can occur due to what’s called visual migraines (ocular migraines).
Our optometrists diagnose glaucoma, cataracts, age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), retinal holes, and retinal tears. We also can view diabetes, hypertension or other systemic diseases. Our optometrist’s role in the eye health of our patients is the full scope and you can come to see us for all eye problems.