Childhood myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is a vision condition in which distant objects appear blurry while close-up vision remains clear. This occurs when the eyeball is slightly too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. Myopia is becoming increasingly common among children worldwide, often developing during school-age years and progressing as they grow.
Early signs of myopia in children can include squinting, frequent eye rubbing, sitting too close to the television or reading material, difficulty seeing the board in class, and complaints of headaches or eye strain. Because children may not always recognize or communicate vision problems, routine eye examinations are essential for early detection.
If left untreated, childhood myopia can worsen over time, leading to high myopia, a severe form that increases the risk of serious eye complications later in life, including retinal detachment, glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration.
Management of childhood myopia goes beyond prescribing glasses to correct vision. Modern approaches focus on slowing the progression of the condition. Treatment options may include specially designed spectacle lenses, contact lenses such as orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses worn overnight to reshape the cornea temporarily, and low-dose atropine eye drops shown to reduce myopia progression in children. Outdoor activities and regular breaks from prolonged close-up tasks, such as screen time and reading, are also encouraged as preventive measures.
At the ophthalmology clinic, children undergo comprehensive eye examinations that assess visual acuity, eye health, and refractive error. Parents receive guidance on treatment choices, lifestyle adjustments, and follow-up care to ensure optimal vision development. Regular monitoring allows adjustments in prescription and therapy to be made promptly.
With early intervention, ongoing care, and a personalized treatment plan, children with myopia can enjoy clear vision, healthy eye development, and reduced risk of vision-threatening complications in the future.