Nearsightedness (also known as myopia) is a common vision condition where you can see close-up objects clearly, but distant objects are blurry.
The degree of your nearsightedness determines your ability to focus on distant objects. People with severe nearsightedness can only clearly see objects just a few inches away, while those with mild nearsightedness may clearly see objects several yards away.
Nearsightedness may develop gradually or rapidly, often worsening during childhood and adolescence. Find out more about myopia and why we often recommend myopia management for children and teens.
What causes nearsightedness?
Nearsightedness happens when the eye is slightly longer than normal or the cornea curves too much. This causes light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it, making distant objects appear blurry.
Genetics is a contributing factor—if your parents are nearsighted, you’re more likely to be, too. Environmental factors, like spending a lot of time on close-up activities (reading, screens, or schoolwork) and not enough time outdoors, may also raise a child’s risk of developing myopia.
Signs of myopia
It’s easy to spot myopia once you know what to look for. Common signs include:
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Blurry vision when looking at distant objects, like street signs or the TV
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Squinting to see clearly
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Headaches or eye strain from trying to focus
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Difficulty seeing the board at school
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Holding books, tablets, or phones very close to your eyes
If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to schedule a comprehensive eye exam. Early detection is critical for keeping your or your child’s vision sharp and comfortable.
Myopia treatment options
The good news is that nearsightedness is easy to correct! Most people start with eyeglasses or contact lenses, which focus light properly on the retina so you can see distant objects clearly.
For kids and teens with myopia, our eye doctor may recommend myopia management to slow its progression. Slowing its progression can protect children’s eyes from problems later in life, like retinal issues or glaucoma.
Some ways we can help manage myopia include:
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Specialty contact lenses like orthokeratology (overnight lenses that reshape the cornea) or MiSight 1 day lenses, which are clinically proven to slow myopia progression
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Low-dose atropine eye drops, another proven option to reduce worsening myopia
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Changes in lifestyle habits, like spending more time outdoors and taking breaks from reading or screens
Take care of your child’s eyes
Nearsightedness is common, but it doesn’t have to hold you or your child back. Schedule an eye exam today and find the best myopia treatment options for your family.
