Myopia Control

What is Myopia?

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is an eye condition where objects in the distance appear blurry. This is the most common refractive error among children and adults. This condition occurs when the eye grows longer from front to back. The most common symptoms of myopia are squinting, eye strain, headaches and fatigue.

Below is a list of recent important statistics:

  • Myopia rates have increased by 42% since 1970
  • 2018 study published by the American Academy of Ophthalmology associated near-vision activities (reading/screen time) with myopia
  • The same study stated above also found that the time spent outdoors can slow the progression of myopia in children.

Research data suggests a relationship between high amounts of prolonged near work and the increased axial length of an eye. This results in the progression of myopia. Experts agree that too much screen time for children isn’t good for the eyes. In fact, the World Health Organization just announced new guidelines to screen time:

  • Infants under 1 – No screen time
  • Ages 2 to 4 – No more than 2 hours daily

Being highly nearsighted comes with many risks. Retinal detachment, glaucoma, and myopic maculopathy are just a few that can lead to blindness. Children are scared to complain about their vision because they don’t want the “smart devices” taken away. Routine eye checks by a licensed optometrist will be the only way to catch myopia before it gets out of hand.

In the end, diagnosing myopia as early as possible can mean the world to the child’s future. Click here to request an appointment for your child TODAY!

Tags: , , , , , , , ,