Myopia, or nearsightedness, is becoming a global epidemic, particularly among children. It's estimated that by 2050, nearly half of the world’s population will be affected by myopia. In the U.S., about 1 in 3 children are already dealing with this eye condition.
Since children might not always communicate their vision difficulties, parents must be aware of the signs indicating that their child might develop myopia. This article will guide you through what to watch for and explain how Texas State Optical - Congress pediatric eye care can help your child maintain clear, healthy vision.
1. Squinting to See Distant Objects
One of the most common signs of myopia in children is squinting. When children squint, they try to focus their eyes better to see distant objects more clearly. Squinting reduces the amount of light entering the eye, temporarily improving vision clarity.
If you notice your child frequently squinting when looking at the television, reading signs, or watching activities from a distance, it could be a sign that they struggle to see clearly.
2. Sitting Too Close to Screens
Another tell-tale sign is when children consistently sit close to the television computer screen or hold books and tablets too close to their faces. This behavior often stems from their difficulty in seeing clearly from a normal distance.
If your child consistently sits closer than usual to screens or other visual materials, it may indicate that they are compensating for poor distance vision.
3. Complaints of Headaches and Eye Strain
Children with myopia often experience headaches and eye strain due to the constant effort their eyes make to focus. While young children may be unable to articulate that they have a headache, they might express discomfort or exhibit signs like rubbing their eyes frequently.
Pay attention if your child complains of head discomfort, particularly after engaging in activities that involve viewing distant objects.
4. Difficulty Seeing the Board at School
Teachers are often the first to notice when a child is having difficulty seeing in school. If a teacher reports that your child struggles to see what is written on the board or falls behind in their visual tasks, it might be time for an eye exam.
5. Excessive Blinking or Rubbing of Eyes
Excessive blinking or frequent eye rubbing can indicate myopia in children. These actions can signal eye fatigue or discomfort, often due to difficulty focusing on distant objects.
While these behaviors can sometimes be mistaken for allergies, if they are coupled with other signs of visual difficulty, it is wise to consider myopia as a possible cause.
6. Lack of Interest in Outdoor Activities
Children with undiagnosed myopia may lose interest in outdoor activities that require good distance vision, such as playing sports. They might prefer indoor activities where they can see clearly.
If your child shows a sudden disinterest in activities they previously enjoyed, it could be a sign of underlying vision issues.
The Importance of Pediatric Eye Exams
Regular pediatric eye exams are crucial since children may not always express their vision problems. At Texas State Optical - Congress, we are skilled in pediatric eye care, ensuring your child’s vision is thoroughly assessed. Our eye exams are designed to detect even the slightest vision issues, ensuring myopia and other eye conditions are caught early and managed effectively.
Managing Myopia with Orthokeratology
For parents concerned about the progression of myopia in their children, we offer orthokeratology (ortho-k) as a non-surgical treatment option. Ortho-k involves using specially designed contact lenses worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea, temporarily correcting myopia and reducing the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses.
This treatment can effectively slow myopia progression in children, allowing them to maintain better vision and reducing the risk of more serious eye conditions later in life.
Request an Eye Exam for Your Child
Recognizing the early signs of myopia in your child is essential for maintaining their visual health and ensuring they succeed in school and life. Our dedicated team is here to support your child's eye care needs, offering comprehensive exams and advanced treatment options like orthokeratology to keep their vision clear and healthy.
Take the first step by requesting a pediatric eye exam in Austin and ensure your child's vision is set for success.