Are you concerned that your child might be struggling with their vision? You’re not alone. Childhood myopia, or nearsightedness, is rising worldwide. This makes it more important than ever to address this issue and help our children achieve clear vision. This blog post discusses the causes, signs, and symptoms of childhood myopia, and the importance of regular eye exams with a professional optometrist.
Causes of Childhood Myopia
Two primary factors contribute to myopia development in children: genetics and the immediate environment. If one or both parents are nearsighted, their child is also more likely to develop myopia. However, today’s increasingly digital world also plays a significant role in the rise of childhood myopia. Increased screen time and reduced outdoor activity can also contribute to developing nearsightedness in children.
Signs and Symptoms of Myopia in Children
Several signs and symptoms may indicate your child may be nearsighted. These can include squinting or straining to see distant objects, frequent headaches, difficulty reading the board at school, and sitting too close to the television or computer screen. If you notice any of these behaviors, you must schedule an eye exam for your child.
Importance of Regular Eye Exams
Regular eye exams are crucial for the early detection of myopia in children. They allow optometrists to monitor the progression of your child’s eyesight and make necessary adjustments to their eyeglasses or contact lenses prescription. Scheduling an eye exam can help ensure your child receives the proper care for their eyes.
Treatment Options for Childhood Myopia
Several treatment options can help your child manage their myopia. Prescription eyeglasses are the most common method, but for schoolchildren who may feel self-conscious about wearing glasses, contact lenses can be a great alternative. Another treatment option is orthokeratology (Ortho-K). It’s a non-surgical procedure of wearing specially designed contact lenses overnight to reshape the cornea to reduce or eliminate myopia.
Prevention Strategies to Keep in Mind
While you cannot change your child’s genetic susceptibility to myopia, you can implement a few strategies to help reduce their risk of developing nearsightedness. Encourage your child to spend more time outdoors and engage in physical activities, as studies have shown that outdoor play may help decrease myopia progression. Limiting screen time and ensuring your child has proper lighting when reading or doing near-work activities is also critical.
Addressing childhood myopia is crucial for maintaining your child’s overall eye health and ensuring clear vision. For those in Arlington and Alexandria, VA, don’t wait to take action and call Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry today! You can reach us at any of the following numbers: (703) 660-9494 (Alexandria), (703) 413-1400 (Crystal City), (703) 522-7676 (Clarendon), (703) 573-1200 (Falls Church), or (703) 467-9080 (Reston). You can also schedule an appointment online for an eye exam with a professional optometrist.
