11 Mar How Nearsightedness Develops and Progresses In Children
Our eyes are one of the main tools that we use to learn new things and experience the world. Our sense of sight is incredibly helpful, which is why it is essential to promote the healthy development of children’s eyes so that they may have the best eyesight possible. Unfortunately, some children may develop myopia, an eye condition that causes children to be able to see things at close range but not at a distance. Better known as “nearsightedness” or “shortsightedness”, this condition is very common in children and can be supported through adequate eye care.
Symptoms of Nearsightedness
There are many symptoms that link to myopia or nearsightedness in children. Some of the biggest ones that you should look out for are:
- Squinting
- Eye strains
- Frequent headaches
- Sitting nearer to the TV
- Holding books or tablets closer to the face
- Excessive watering of the eye
- Rubbing eyes
What Does a Child With Nearsightedness See?
An easy way to remember what a child with nearsightedness sees/what this condition does for a child’s eyesight is to remember that the effects are in the name of the condition. This means that a child with nearsightedness will be able to see things near to them, but not things that are far away. Conversely, children or adults with farsightedness will be able to see things from a distance, but not things that are up close.
Why Does Nearsightedness Occur?
The eye is a very special tool with a very specific design. We are able to see distant objects because our eyes project images at our retinas (the visual focal point at the back of the eye). When the eye shape is too long (not a perfect circle) or when the lens cornea system of the eye is too strong, the picture is projected in front of the retina instead of directly on it, causing part of the image to blur. This creates nearsightedness.
How To Know If Your Child Will Have Nearsightedness
Children may develop nearsightedness at any stage of their life. For some, it comes at an earlier age than others, but the reasons are always the same. If a parent (or both parents) are myopic (have nearsightedness), it is highly likely that the child will also inherit this trait. Other reasons children may develop nearsightedness include:
- Living in big cities
- Attaining a higher level of education
- Increasing number of tasks that require near-focused vision
- Looking at screens close up
- More indoor activities
- Lack of natural light
Knowing this, it is essential for your child to regularly receive eye checks to ensure that their nearsightedness is not causing other eye problems. You can find the right nearsightedness/myopia management solution today at Dr. D’Orio Eyecare. Our expert optometrists in Toronto and North York are always ready to help. Contact us today to book an appointment at either of our locations.
