Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a common vision condition that affects the ability to see distant objects clearly. It often develops in childhood and can progress over time. Understanding the causes of myopia and recognizing the risk factors can help protect your child’s eye health.
At The Contact Lens Institute of Nevada, we specialize in diagnosing and managing myopia to support your child’s long-term vision.
Understanding the Causes of Myopia
Myopia occurs when the eyeball grows too long, or the cornea (the eye's clear front surface) is too curved. This causes light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it, resulting in blurry distance vision.
Several factors can contribute to the development of myopia:
Genetics: If one or both parents are nearsighted, their child is more likely to develop myopia.
Prolonged Near Work: Activities like reading, using a tablet, or doing homework for extended periods can increase the risk of myopia.
Limited Outdoor Time: Studies suggest that children who spend less time outdoors are more likely to develop myopia. Sunlight exposure and distance focusing during outdoor play may help reduce this risk.
Signs Your Child May Be at Risk of Myopia
It’s important to monitor your child for signs of myopia, especially if they exhibit the following:
- Squinting to see distant objects, such as the board in class
- Sitting too close to screens or holding books very near their face
- Complaints of headaches or eye strain
- Difficulty seeing clearly while playing sports or watching TV
Steps to Reduce Myopia Progression
You can take proactive steps to reduce the risk of myopia progression in your child:
- Encourage outdoor activities for at least 1-2 hours daily
- Limit screen time and ensure regular breaks during near work
- Schedule annual eye exams to catch early signs of myopia
Protect Your Child’s Eye Health with a Comprehensive Eye Exam
At The Contact Lens Institute of Nevada, we help monitor and manage your child’s vision. Contact us to schedule a comprehensive eye exam at our Las Vegas office. Together, we can safeguard your child’s eye health and help them see a brighter future.
