If your child cannot see distant objects clearly, they are likely to be myopic. For a child who has myopia, objects far away appear blurry. The condition often becomes worse throughout childhood and adolescence. 

One can correct myopia using eyeglasses. If worn correctly, eyeglasses prevent vision from worsening further. As a parent, find out if your child has myopia. 

Signs of Myopia in Kids

Unfortunately, most kids will not complain about their sight. So as a parent, look for signs of myopia in your child. In most cases, children will move closer to the object to see better. Others might complain that they cannot see far away objects. 

If your child shows signs of difficulty seeing distant objects, it is vital to visit an eye doctor. Children should get their eyes checked the first time at six months old, then at three years, and again before they start first grade. Eye exams are vital if there is a family history of myopia.

What Causes Myopia?

Myopia occurs when the child’s eyeball is longer than normal from the front to the back. The light rays comprising the images the eyes see fall short from hitting the retina directly, hitting only the front instead. 

Objects at a distance appear unclear and blurry. This condition can occur at a very early age and is usually genetic. Most kids who have myopia have one or both parents with the condition.  

Can You Prevent Myopia?

People usually inherit myopia, so it may not be possible to prevent it. However, it is possible to slow down the progression of the condition. This means that your child does not have to develop high myopia. 

Ensure that your child gets regular eye exams. Find out if your child has difficulty at school due to vision problems or trouble seeing far. It is vital to get the right prescription for corrective lenses. 

Slowing Myopia Progression

Some treatments can work to slow myopia progression. Special glasses, contact lenses, and atropine eye drops can help slow myopia progression in kids. However, eye drops can lead to blurred vision and sensitivity to light. 

The medication can also cause some itching or discomfort. Using drops alongside lenses has proven to be an effective reliever. The eye doctor will prescribe the best control treatment based on different factors. 

Treatment for Myopia 

If your child has myopia, the eye doctor can prescribe eyeglasses. The child can switch to contacts when they are older or mature enough to care for them. Teens can wear contacts, but you must ensure that your child cares for them and wears them as prescribed. 

If your child wears corrective lenses, you will need to ensure that you examine their vision regularly. The examinations will help ensure that the prescription is up-to-date. 

Spending time outdoors helps suppress or slow down the development of myopia. Children should spend less time using the computer or watching TV. 

To know if your child has myopia, visit Today’s Vision at our office in Laguna Niguel, California. You can call (949) 518-0055 today to schedule an appointment.