Myopia Control and Children's Eyes
What is short sightedness in children?
Short sightedness, or myopia, means distant objects look blurred while near objects are clear. It happens because the eye has grown slightly too long for its focusing power. It usually starts between about six and thirteen years of age and increases while the child grows. Glasses correct the blur, and separate treatments can slow the increase.
How it develops
The eye grows during childhood. In myopia it grows a little too long, so light focuses in front of the retina rather than on it. Because growth continues, the prescription usually increases through the school years and tends to settle in the late teens or early twenties.
Both inheritance and environment matter. A child with one short sighted parent is more likely to become short sighted, and with two the chance is higher still. Limited time outdoors and a great deal of sustained near work are also associated with it.
What parents notice
- Moving closer to the television or board
- Screwing up the eyes to see into the distance
- Not recognising people until they are close
- Difficulty copying from the board while near work is unaffected
- Complaints of headache after school
Why the level matters
Higher myopia stretches the eye, which increases the lifetime risk of retinal tears and detachment, myopic damage to the macula, and glaucoma. Slowing progression during childhood reduces the final level reached, which is why myopia control is offered rather than simply updating glasses each year.
Practical measures
- Aim for around two hours of outdoor daylight each day, which is associated with slower progression
- Take regular breaks from near work, looking into the distance
- Encourage a reading distance of about the length of the forearm, with good lighting
- Attend for review, usually every six to twelve months, so change is detected early
Frequently asked questions
- Will my child need stronger glasses every year?
- Often the prescription does increase each year during growth. Regular review lets you see the pace of change and decide whether myopia control is appropriate.
- Can eye exercises cure myopia?
- No. Exercises do not change the length of the eye and do not reverse short sightedness.
Concerned about these symptoms?
Arrange an eye examination with our consultant ophthalmologist in Garki, Abuja.