St. George Utah Optometrist Gives Tips on Whether Your Child Has Myopia and What Signs to Watch For

Myopia…. what is it?  Why has there been an increase in the number of children who have myopia?  Lastly, what can you do about it? St. George Utah optometrist gives tips on whether your child has myopia and what signs to watch for.

Myopia

Myopia is described and being nearsighted.  People who are nearsighted see best at things that are closer versus far away. Nearly 30% of people suffer from myopia.

What Causes Myopia?

Myopia usually begins to present itself in early childhood.  It has been found that genetics as well as a child’s environment are key players in whether a child will end up developing myopia.

How to know what to look for?

Like previously mentioned, those who are nearsighted see best up close.  Your child may start to complain about having headaches/tired eyes while reading or doing homework.  They may also state that they are not able to see the board at school.  You may also notice they are watching electronic devices very close.

If you have seen any of these symptoms in your child, give us a call or come in and let Dr. Smith take a look at him or her to accurately diagnose the problem.  We recommend that children get their first eye exam at 6 months with follow up exams at 3 years old and then again before they enter 1st grade, with yearly exams after that.

Can It Be Prevented?

Myopia is often inherited, so complete prevention isn’t always a possibility.  However, slowing the process is possible.  Studies suggest that 2 hours of bright, natural light each day for children can help slow the process of developing Myopia.

Nowadays, children spend more time indoors with artificial light, focusing on objects nearer to them rather than far. This difference in light and distance may be causing children’s eyes to be more oblong and unable to focus clearly in the distance.

Encouraging your children to go out and play for a while each day just might be the medicine they need to help keep their eyes nice and healthy.

Will your child have restrictions if they have myopia?

Children with myopia need to be monitored regularly.  Their eyes change quickly and may not stabilize until their 20’s or 30’s.  During these times of change, your child can still be able to have full, clear vision and enjoy childhood in high functioning ways.

Here at Stone Canyon Eye Care, we can find the best option tailored specifically for your child. Options such as contacts, glasses, or other treatments can provide your child with the clearest vision possible.

The content found on this blog is for information purposes only.  It is not intended to take the place of professional medical advice from your eye care provider.   Always seek treatment from a qualified health care provider with all your eye health and medical questions regarding your health.