If you’ve recently been told that your child is nearsighted, you might be wondering what exactly that means. Nearsightedness, or myopia, is a refractive error that occurs when the eyeball is too long, or the cornea is too curved. This causes light to focus in front of the retina instead of on it, resulting in fuzzy or blurry vision.
Myopia usually gets worse when diagnosed in children and can increase their risk of developing serious eye diseases later in life. However, there are ways to manage or control it, so it doesn’t get worse. Here’s everything you need to know about nearsightedness in children.
What causes myopia?
Genetics play a role in the development of myopia, but it is not the only factor. If both parents are nearsighted, there is nearly a 6 times greater risk that their kids will be near-sighted too in comparison to a child with no nearsighted parents.
Certain environmental and lifestyle factors influence the development of myopia. These factors include prolonged time on near-work activities such as reading and use of digital devices, insufficient time outdoors, and poor lighting.
What are the symptoms of myopia?
The most common symptom of myopia is difficulty seeing distant objects clearly. This can make it difficult for your child to see the blackboard at school or recognize people’s faces from a distance. Other symptoms include squinting, headaches, and eye fatigue. Myopia may also affect children in other aspects of their daily life including academic performance, sporting activities, social interactions, independence, and self-esteem.
If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with a pediatric optometrist as soon as possible. The doctors at Vision Salon Eye Care Associates in Blue Island are experts at diagnosing and treating myopia in children.
Can myopia be cured?
There is no cure for myopia, but there are options available to help slow its progression and improve vision. At Vision Salon Eye Care Associates, our knowledgeable and experienced doctors and staff can help you decide which method is most suitable for your child, depending on their needs, lifestyle, age, and myopia level. Treatments can include special contact lenses or low dose atropine eye drops.
Conclusion
If your child has been diagnosed with myopia, you might be feeling a little overwhelmed. But don’t worry! By familiarizing yourself with the condition and knowing what treatments are available, you can help your child manage their nearsightedness and maintain good vision for years to come.
Learn more about myopia and myopia management at Vision Salon Eye Care Associates in Blue Island by visiting our website
