Myopia in Children: Early Detection and Intervention

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a common vision problem in children. It occurs when light focuses in front of the retina instead of on it. This causes blurry vision for distant objects but clearer vision for things up close. Myopia usually develops in childhood and worsens over time if left untreated.
 

A child with myopia might struggle to see the board in school or distant objects clearly. They may squint or complain of headaches. Myopia affects a child’s ability to see well, which can impact learning and daily activities.
 

How Myopia Develops in Children

Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long or the lens or cornea is too curved. This causes light to focus in front of the retina, blurring vision. It may be inherited, meaning children of myopic parents are more likely to develop the condition. Environmental factors, such as too much screen time or limited outdoor play, can also contribute to myopia’s development.
 

Children typically start showing signs of myopia between ages 6 and 10. The condition may progress, especially during puberty.
 

Why Early Detection Matters

Early detection of myopia is key to managing the condition and preventing its worsening. Detecting myopia early allows doctors to begin treatment that can slow its progression.
 

Eye exams should be part of regular checkups for children. Vision screening in schools or pediatrician offices can help catch early signs of myopia. Schedule a comprehensive eye exam if your child complains of blurry distance vision.
 

Treatment Options for Myopia

Once diagnosed, there are several treatment options for managing myopia in children. Prescription glasses or contact lenses are the most common solutions. These correct the focusing issue, allowing the child to see clearly.
 

These include:

• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) — Special contact lenses are worn overnight to reshape the cornea temporarily.

• Atropine eye drops — Low-dose atropine can help reduce the progression of myopia.

• Multifocal lenses — These lenses provide clearer vision at all distances, potentially slowing myopia’s progression.

• Lifestyle adjustments — Increasing outdoor activities and reducing screen time can also help control myopia’s progression.
   

The Role of Myopia Control Treatments

Myopia control treatments aim to slow down the progression of nearsightedness in children. Many kids with myopia see their prescriptions change quickly as they grow, making early intervention key.
 

Two popular treatments for myopia control are Ortho-K lenses and atropine eye drops. Ortho-K lenses reshape the cornea while your child sleeps, which helps reduce eye growth. Atropine drops relax the eye muscles, also slowing progression.
 

The Importance of Regular Eye Exams

Regular eye exams are a must for kids with myopia. These exams help doctors track how the condition is progressing. They can also adjust treatments to keep your child’s vision clear. Early detection is critical since myopia can worsen quickly during growth periods. During the eye exam, the doctor will check your child’s vision and test how well their eyes focus.
 

How Parents Can Help

Parents can make a big difference in managing their child’s myopia. One simple way is to encourage more outdoor time. Studies show that spending time outdoors can help reduce the risk of myopia worsening. Ensure your child has time each day to play outside, away from screens.
 

Limit screen time and remind your child to take regular breaks. Close-up activities like reading or using devices can strain their eyes. Encourage them to follow the 20-20-20 rule: take a 20-second break every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away.
 

And, of course, make sure your child wears their corrective lenses as prescribed. Whether they are glasses or contact lenses, wearing them as directed will help them see clearly and prevent further worsening of their myopia.
 

For more on myopia in children, visit InSight Eye Care. Our offices are in Oshkosh and Appleton, Wisconsin. Call (920) 235-5530 or (920) 733-3629 to book an appointment today.

 

Sources: 

https://aapos.org/glossary/myopia-and-treatment-of-myopia-in-children