Myopia is becoming increasingly common in children worldwide. Studies suggest that more children are developing myopia at an earlier age, which can lead to severe vision complications later in life if left untreated. The good news is that early detection and proactive management can significantly slow its progression and reduce the risk of long-term vision problems. At Gregg Family Eye Care, we emphasize the importance of early eye exams to safeguard your child’s visual health.

Understanding Myopia in Children

Myopia is a refractive error that makes distant objects appear blurry while close-up vision remains clear. This occurs when the eye grows too long or the cornea is too curved, preventing light from focusing correctly on the retina. Children with myopia may struggle to see the board in school, or participate in sports due to blurred vision.
 

Several factors contribute to myopia development in children, including:

• Genetics: If one or both parents have myopia, their child is at a higher risk.

• Screen Time and Near Work: Increased use of digital devices and prolonged reading or studying can strain the eyes.

• Outdoor Time: Research suggests that spending less time outdoors and more time indoors can contribute to the progression of myopia.
   

The Importance of Early Detection

Early detection of myopia is crucial in preventing its rapid progression and reducing the likelihood of future vision problems such as retinal detachment, cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Regular comprehensive eye exams allow optometrists to diagnose and monitor myopia at its onset. The American Optometric Association recommends that children have their first eye exam at six months, another at three years, and annually once they begin school.
 

Signs that your child may have myopia include:

• Squinting to see distant objects

• Complaints of frequent headaches

• Holding books or screens too close

• Difficulty seeing the board in school

• Excessive eye rubbing
   

How Myopia Management Can Help

Myopia management is essential for slowing its progression and reducing the risk of serious eye conditions like retinal detachment and glaucoma. Effective treatments include Ortho-K, atropine eye drops, and multifocal contact lenses, each offering unique benefits.
 

Ortho-K lenses are worn overnight to temporarily reshape the cornea, providing clear vision during the day while helping to slow myopia progression. Atropine eye drops, used at bedtime, relax the eye’s focusing mechanisms and can be combined with other treatments for enhanced effectiveness. Multifocal contact lenses correct vision at multiple distances while reducing eye elongation, a key factor in myopia progression.
 

Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam with Gregg Family Eye Care Today

We are committed to providing personalized care for children with myopia. Our comprehensive eye exams can help detect myopia early, allowing us to implement effective management strategies to protect your child’s eyesight for the future.
 

If your child is experiencing symptoms of myopia, schedule an eye exam with Gregg Family Eye Care. Visit our office in Secane, Pennsylvania, or call (610) 831-4300 to book an appointment today.