Will Your Child Develop Nearsightedness?

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a common problem for children that is easily corrected with the help of eyeglasses. However, it is important to try to prevent the development and progression of the eye condition. If you suspect your child has myopia, here is what you need to know.  

Is Your Child at Risk? 

For some children, the risk for myopia is genetic. If a parent has it, your child has an increased chance of also developing the eye condition. However, there are other factors that could help increase your child's risk of having myopia.  

For instance, the amount of time that your child spends looking at electronic devices, such as computers and tablets, could have a bearing on whether or not he develops myopia.  

If you believe that your child has myopia, there are some signs that you can look for. One of the most noticeable is that your child will likely squint when looking at distant objects. Your child might move closer to the television or complain of not being able to see the chalkboard or projector screen in class.  

The constant squinting could cause strain on your child, which can lead to frequent headaches. If your child exhibits any of these signs, it is important that you schedule an appointment with the eye doctor as soon as possible. 

Can Myopia Be Reversed? 

Whether or not the condition can be reversed or slowed depends on a number of factors, including the treatment that your child receives. The condition usually stabilizes by the time your child reaches his or her 20's. With proper treatment, it is sometimes possible to correct the issue or prevent it from worsening.  

The most commonly used treatment is eyeglasses. Corrective lenses do more than give your child a clearer view of distant objects; they can also help to correct his or her condition.  

Some eye doctors are using other treatments in addition to the eyeglasses. For instance, the use of atropine eye drops can cause the focusing mechanism within the eyes to relax. Fatigue has sometimes been tied to myopia and by relaxing the mechanism, your child's vision can potentially improve.  

There is a catch to the eye drops, though. They only provide short-term results. He or she will still need to continue to wear eyeglasses during the recommended period. Your child's eye doctor might also use a combination of other therapies to help improve your child's eye condition. Contact a company like White Bear Eye Clinic & Optical to learn more.