Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a vision condition where distant objects appear blurry while close objects remain clear. It's caused by the eye being too long or the cornea being too curved, preventing light from focusing correctly on the retina. Symptoms include squinting, eye strain, headaches, and difficulty seeing things far away. Because myopia often worsens as children age, early detection and treatment are key parts of children's eye care.
The Link Between Screen Time and Myopia in Children
Over the past few years, myopia in children has been on the rise, and increased screen time is a significant factor. With the growing use of digital devices like smartphones, tablets, and computers, children are spending more time focusing on screens at a close distance. This "near work" activity contributes to eye strain, fatigue, and an increased risk of developing myopia.
Less outdoor play and more digital use have meant that younger generations are more prone to vision issues. At Brown's Eye Center, your children’s eye doctor in Kathleen and Warner Robins, we see firsthand how these habits affect children's vision.
How Screen Time Affects the Eyes
Staring at digital screens for long periods forces children's eyes to work harder, causing constant strain. The symptoms of increased screen time include blurred vision, dry eyes, and headaches. Encouraging regular breaks from screens and getting plenty of outdoor time are key to reducing these risks. If your child is showing signs of vision trouble, an eye exam with a myopia eye doctor can help diagnose and manage the condition early on.
Myopia Treatment Options: Glasses, Contact Lenses & More
Thankfully, there are many ways to manage myopia. Eyeglasses for myopia are the most common solution, using specially designed concave lenses to help focus light properly on the retina. Single-vision or bifocal lenses can improve vision significantly and are easy to use.
Contact lenses are another great option, offering more flexibility for active children. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses are worn overnight to reshape the cornea, so your child doesn’t need glasses during the day.
For older children and adults looking for a more permanent fix, LASIK surgery for myopia may be an option. This procedure uses lasers to reshape the cornea, potentially eliminating the need for eyeglasses or contacts. Our eye doctors in Kathleen and Warner Robins can help determine the best approach for your child.
Tips to Slow Myopia Progression in Kids
As a parent, you can support your child’s eye health by reducing screen time and encouraging outdoor play. Try these tips:
- Play Outside: Aim for at least an hour of outdoor time daily to give their eyes a break from screens.
- 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, have your child look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Regular Eye Exams: A yearly visit to an eye doctor can catch changes early and provide effective myopia treatment options.
Find a Children’s Eye Doctor Near You in Georgia
Concerned about your child’s vision? An appointment with our optometrists in Kathleen or Warner Robins. At Brown's Eye Center, we are committed to providing comprehensive care and personalized myopia treatment options to support your child’s vision.