Myopia (also known as short- or near-sightedness) is a growing concern among children worldwide. It’s a condition where distant objects appear blurry while close objects can be seen clearly.
Myopia typically develops in childhood and progresses as the child grows. With technological advancements there is an increasing use of electronic devices and more time spent indoors. As a result, the prevalence of myopia in children has surged.
For parents, early prevention and myopia treatment in your little one are crucial. Unaddressed cases can lead to more severe eye problems later in life, such as retinal detachment or glaucoma which can result in vision loss or blindness. By understanding the symptoms, causes, and available treatments, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your child’s eyesight.
How Can I Know If My Child Has Myopia?
Recognising the signs of myopia early on is essential for timely intervention. Children may not always realise they have vision problems, so it’s up to parents and teachers to watch for the warning signs.
Common symptoms include:
- Squinting: Do you notice your child frequently squinting to see? This is a clear indication that they’re struggling to see distant objects.
- Sitting too close to the TV or holding books too near: Kids with myopia often bring objects close to their faces to see them better.
- Frequent eye rubbing or blinking: This could be a sign that their eyes are straining to focus.
- Difficulty seeing the board at school: If your child is having trouble seeing what’s written on the blackboard or whiteboard in the classroom, it’s a red flag.
- Complaints of headaches or eye fatigue: Pay attention to how your child feels during and after activities that require reading or viewing distant objects. Uncorrected vision problems can lead to discomfort.
If you notice any of these signs, please schedule an eye exam for your child with an eye specialist as soon as possible. Early detection can make a significant difference in managing myopia and preventing it from worsening.
What are the Causes of Myopia in Kids?
Myopia is caused by the elongation of the eyeball or an overly curved cornea which causes light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. The exact causes of myopia are not fully understood, but several risk factors contribute to its development, including:
- Genetics: Myopia often runs in families as children with myopic parents are more likely to develop the condition. This suggests a genetic predisposition.
- Lack of outdoor time: Studies have shown that children who spend more time outdoors are less likely to develop myopia. Exposure to natural light helps maintain a healthy eye structure and growth.
- Increased screen time: The growing use of smartphones, tablets, and computers has been linked to a higher incidence of myopia in children. The close-up focus required for these devices can strain the eyes and may accelerate the condition onset.
- Near work: Any activity that involves focusing on objects at a close distance, such as reading, writing, or using digital devices, can contribute to its development.
By understanding these causes, you can take steps to reduce the risk of children’s myopia worsening.
Can Myopia in Kids Be Prevented?
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent myopia, there are several strategies can help decrease the risk or delay its progression.
Encouraging good visual habits is key:
- Limit screen time: Set boundaries on gadget usage. Encoruage breaks following the 20-20-20 rule: for every 20 minutes screen time, have your child look at an object 20 feet (6 metres) away for at least 20 seconds.
- Promote outdoor activities: Ensure your child gets at least one to two hours of outdoor play under the sun each day. Exposure to sunlight stimulates the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that may influence eye growth and help the eye adjust its focus more effectively. Remember to apply sunscreen!
- Encourage good reading habits: Set up a well-lit area for your kids to read books or do their homework. Teach them to maintain proper posture and an appropriate distance from books or screens. Encourage regular breaks to rest their eyes.
- Routine eye check-ups: Annual eye exams with certified optometrists are vital for the early detection and monitoring of myopia. If caught early, steps can be taken to manage and slow its progression.
As a parent, leading by example and practising these strategies will have a positively impact on your children. After all, everyone, regardless of age, should take care of their eyes.
What Is The Best Treatment for Myopia in Children?
Remedies for near-sightedness depend on the severity of the condition and the individual’s age. If your child is diagnosed with myopia, here are some treatment options for you to consider:
- Prescription glasses or contact lenses: These are the most common tools for correcting myopia. Glasses are usually the first choice due to their ease of use and have the most minimal side effects.
- Atropine eye drops: Low-dose atropine drops have been shown to hinder the progression of myopia in children. These drops are typically used at bedtime.
- Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): This non-surgical treatment involves wearing specially designed rigid contact lenses overnight to reshape the cornea. This allows for clear vision during the day without the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses.
- Increased outdoor time: As previously mentioned, encouraging your child to spend more time outdoors is a simple yet effective way to combat myopia.
- Nutritional considerations: A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, nuts, and seeds, has been linked to a lower risk of myopia. Adequate intake of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A and zinc, promotes healthy eye function.
For children with high myopia or those who prefer not to wear glasses or contact lenses, refractive surgery may be an option. However, refractive surgery is generally not recommended for minors under the age of 18.
Each child’s situation is unique, so it’s important to consult with an eye care professional to determine the best course of action.
Myopia Know-Hows: A Quick Recap of What You’ve Learnt
Myopia in children is becoming more common, but with early detection and the right approach, it can be managed effectively.
Remember to watch out for signs of myopia and take measures to prevent further development. If diagnosed, treatments like glasses, atropine drops, and Ortho-K can help slow its progression. Most importantly, encouraging healthy visual habits and scheduling routine eye check-ups can make a significant difference in your child’s eye health.
Take a proactive approach today to protect your child’s vision with VISTA, your trusted eye specialist in Malaysia! Stay tuned for more eye care tips or contact us now for more information.
Let your child see the world clearly—now and in the future.
