Myopia in children is one of the most common vision problems of the current generation. More and more parents notice that their little ones have difficulty seeing at a distance, and the diagnosis of childhood myopia often appears at increasingly younger ages.
The good news? Myopia can be controlled, and its progression can be slowed down with correct measures and constant monitoring.
What is myopia in children?
Myopia is a condition where a child sees well up close but blurry at a distance. It is caused by the elongation of the eyeball or incorrect light refraction.
Why does myopia occur in children?
There are a few main factors:
Screens and time spent indoors
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Children spend a lot of time in front of phones, tablets, games, or doing homework, at a short distance from the objects they are looking at. This favors the development of myopia.
Genetic inheritance
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If one or both parents are myopic, the child has an increased risk.
Lack of time spent outdoors
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Studies show that a minimum of 2 hours/day outdoors can reduce the risk of myopia.
Insufficient light
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Reading or doing homework in dim light contributes to eye strain.
Symptoms of myopia in children
Pay attention to these signs:
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Squints when looking into the distance
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Gets very close to the screen or notebook
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Complains of headaches
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Sits too close to the TV
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Has difficulty reading writing on the blackboard
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Eye fatigue or excessive blinking
If you notice any of these symptoms, an ophthalmological consultation is necessary.
How do we protect children's vision?
Regular consultations with an optometrist / ophthalmologist:
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First consultation at 6 months
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Then at 3 years old
Then annually or more often, if myopia is present -
Careful monitoring helps prevent rapid progression
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Special glasses for myopia control
For children with progressive myopia, there are modern lenses that slow down its evolution:
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Hoya MiYOSMART lenses
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Glasses with a special design for myopia control
At Optica Familiei, specialists can guide you to optimal solutions.
Regular breaks during reading or screen use
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Apply the 20-20-20 rule:
Every 20 minutes → look for 20 seconds → at 20 feet away.
Correct lighting at home
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Good light reduces eye stress and prevents eye fatigue.
Diet that supports eye health
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Blueberries
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Fatty fish
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Carrots
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Broccoli
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Nuts and seeds
When should you take your child for a check-up?
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if you notice symptoms of myopia
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if myopia increases by more than -0.5 diopters/year
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if they spend a lot of time on screens
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if there is a family history of myopia
At Optica Familiei, specialists help you with professional consultations, personalized recommendations, and modern myopia control solutions. Schedule an appointment now and take care of your child's eyes!
*This article is for informational purposes and does not replace medical consultation. For personalized recommendations, consult specialists.
