Myopia, known commonly as nearsightedness, is a vision condition that affects the ability to see distant objects clearly. This condition is becoming increasingly common among children, making it essential for parents to recognize the symptoms early and seek treatment.
With children going back to school this month, it’s important to make sure they have healthy vision. We fully devote ourselves to supporting parents in understanding and addressing myopia in their children, promoting optimal eye health and vision development.
What Are The Symptoms of Myopia?
One of the earliest and most noticeable symptoms of myopia in children is difficulty seeing distant objects clearly. This might manifest as your child struggling to read the board in school, preferring to sit closer to the television, or holding books and screens very close to their face.
Another common symptom of myopia is squinting. Children may squint their eyes to see more clearly, which is a natural response to blurred vision caused by myopia. If you notice your child frequently squinting, it could be a sign that they are struggling with their vision and may need an eye exam.
Other symptoms to watch for include:
- Frequent Headaches: Straining to see clearly can lead to headaches, especially after reading or doing other close-up work.
- Eye Fatigue: Myopia can cause children to experience eye strain or fatigue, particularly after prolonged periods of trying to focus on distant objects.
- Rubbing Eyes: If your child often rubs their eyes, it could be a sign of eye discomfort or strain related to myopia.
Importance of Pediatric Eye Exams
Regular pediatric eye exams are crucial for detecting myopia early and managing its progression. Myopia often develops during childhood and can worsen over time if not properly treated.
During a pediatric eye exam at Beltline Vision Clinic, our optometrists will assess your child’s vision and eye health, identify any signs of myopia, and recommend the best treatment options to ensure clear vision.
Treatment Options for Your Child’s Myopia
While myopia cannot be cured, the right treatment can effectively manage it. The most common treatment for myopia is prescription glasses or contact lenses, which correct the refractive error and allow your child to see distant objects clearly.
For children who are particularly active or self-conscious about wearing glasses, contact lenses can be an excellent alternative.
Another innovative treatment option is myopia control, which involves specialized contact lenses or glasses designed to slow the progression of myopia in children.
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses, worn overnight, gently reshape the cornea to reduce myopia, offering clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses.
Schedule a Pediatric Eye Exam at Beltline Vision Clinic
Recognizing the symptoms of myopia early and seeking treatment is essential for preserving your child’s vision, especially during back-to-school season. If you notice your child squinting, complaining of headaches, or struggling to see clearly, it’s time to schedule a pediatric eye exam.
At Beltline Vision Clinic, we offer comprehensive eye care tailored to your child’s needs. Don’t wait to address your child’s vision problems. Schedule a pediatric eye exam and let us help your child see the world with clarity and confidence.