Being a parent myself, I can relate to the concern that comes from a child’s squinting when watching television, holding books too close for comfort, or encountering some headaches. Although these signs may be interpreted as minor, they could be more signficant—a head turn toward a more serious problem; myopia, or more commonly, nearsightedness.
Is Your Child Experiencing Blurry Vision? It Could Be Myopia. This is one question we would encourage all parents to ask themselves. Myopia is on the rise in association with children. If not diagnosed and treated in a timely manner, it can hinder their learning and development, as well as severely impact their quality of life.
At Ishwar Eye Centre, a leading Eye Care Centre in Rohtak, we specialize in early detection and treatment of childhood myopia. Let’s explore the signs, causes, consequences, and treatments of myopia in children—and why consulting the best eye doctors in Rohtak at Ishwar Eye Centre is the best step you can take for your child’s vision health.
Understanding Myopia in Children
Myopia is a refractive error in which the patient does not see objects in the distance clearly while nearby objects can clearly be seen. This happens because of the eyeball lengthening or the cornea becoming too rounded resulting to light rays focusing in front of the retina instead of directly on it.
In children, myopia typically begins to develop between the ages of 6 and 14, though it can occur earlier. The condition tends to progress throughout the school years, especially without proper intervention.
Signs Your Child May Have Myopia
As a parent, being alert to changes in your child’s behavior can be the first step toward early diagnosis. Here are some common symptoms of childhood myopia:
- Consistently squinting or shutting one eye to enhance vision
- Saying that they cannot see distant objects clearly such as in the case of seeing the board in class
- Nearby sitting in relation to the TV, or even books while reading
- Vision related headaches
- More frequent eye rubbing and blinking
- Reduced concentration in class because of poor eyesight
- Not participating in anything that requires looking far away
If you notice any of these signs, remember this: Is Your Child Experiencing Blurry Vision? It Could Be Myopia. And early diagnosis can make all the difference.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors contribute to the development of myopia in children, including:
Genetics
The relative risk is higher in children who have one or both parents with myopia.
Staring At A Screen For Long Periods
Increased risk can result from excessive reading, writing, screen time, or other activities requiring close vision.
Reduced Time Spent Outdoors
Research indicates that children who report having less free time outdoors are more likely to be myopic.
Lifestyle and Environment
The prevalence of myopia is higher in populations living in crowded urban areas with little access to open spaces.
Why Early Detection Is Crucial
Myopia is not an inconvenience, rather it can lead to severe complications when left untreated, such as increased risk of:
- Detached retina
- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
- Myopic macular degeneration
Ishwar Eye Centre encourages periodic vision screening in school-aged children. Treating myopia as soon as possible helps prevent further complications later in life.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options at Ishwar Eye Centre
We pride ourselves on being the most trusted Eye Care Centre in Rohtak, with a focus on pediatric eye care. Our comprehensive approach includes:
- Comprehensive Eye Examination
We use modern machinery to accurately diagnose myopia as well as its severity during our detailed eye checks.
- Prescription Glasses
To improve their eyesight and overall performance at school and home, children with mild to moderate myopia are usually recommended glasses as the first line of treatment.
- Contact Lenses
For active school going children or those who participate in sports, glasses may not be the most ideal choice and thus, contact lenses may serve as a suitable alternative.
- Myopia Control Options
At our clinic, we provide evidence-based methods for controlling the progression of myopia including:
– Atropine eye drops
– Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)
– Multifocal contact lenses
– Specially designed myopia control glasses
– Specially designed myopia control glasses
- Lifestyle Counseling
In order to promote better long-term eye health, we educate both parents and children to reduce time spent on screens and increase time spent outdoors.
The Ishwar Eye Centre Advantage
Located in the heart of Rohtak, Ishwar Eye Centre is widely recognized for its commitment to quality pediatric eye care. Here’s why families across Haryana trust us:
- Experienced Pediatric Ophthalmologists – Our team includes some of the best eye doctors in Rohtak, trained in the latest diagnostic and treatment techniques for childhood myopia.
- Advanced Technology – From digital refraction systems to retinal imaging, we use cutting-edge technology for accurate assessments.
- Personalized Care – Every child is different. We provide customized treatment plans based on your child’s age, lifestyle, and degree of myopia.
- Friendly Environment – Our child-friendly atmosphere ensures your little one feels comfortable and at ease during every visit.
Prevention Tips for Parents
Although genetics cannot be changed, there are measures that can be taken to lessen the likelihood of myopia in children and safeguard their eyesight:
✔ Promote Outdoor Activities
Strive for a minimum of two hours of outdoor activity each day. Exposure to natural light is known to delay the onset of myopia.
✔ Limit Screen Time
Set boundaries around the use of mobile phones, computers, and tablets. Teach the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look away at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
✔ Schedule Routine Eye Tests
Children should have comprehensive eye assessments every year, regardless of whether they are complaining or not. Many children do not realize that their vision is compromised.
✔ Ensure Proper Lighting
Avoid unnecessary eye strain by ensuring your child reads and studies under adequate light.
Busted Myopia Myths
Myth: Children are too young to have any form of medical concern.
Fact: Myopia starts as early as 5 to 6 years of age. It is essential to diagnose as early on as possible.
Myth: Eyesights get worse with glasses.
Fact: Glasses do not make the eyesight condition worse. Corrective lenses help to see better.
Myth: Using TV makes myopia worsen.
Fact: While advanced screening and near work increase risks, viewing TV at a reasonable distance is not harmful if done moderately.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been asking yourself, “Is Your Child Experiencing Blurry Vision? It Could Be Myopia,” it’s time to act. Don’t wait for the symptoms to worsen or impact your child’s education and confidence. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can help manage myopia effectively and give your child the clear vision they deserve.