What Is Myopia? Causes, Risks, and How to Manage It

Introduction: Why Myopia Matters More Than Ever

As an eye doctor - and the mother of children with myopia - I’ve seen firsthand how nearsightedness can affect learning, confidence, and daily life.

With screen use at an all-time high, myopia in children is becoming increasingly common and starting at younger ages. But what exactly is myopia, what causes it, and most importantly, what can parents do about it?

What Is Myopia?

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a common eye condition where distant objects appear blurry, while near objects remain clear.

This happens when the eye grows too long from front to back or when the cornea is too curved. Light entering the eye focuses in front of the retina instead of directly on it, resulting in blurry distance vision.

👉 Example: If your child can read a book up close but struggles to see the whiteboard at school, they may have myopia.

While eyeglasses and contact lenses correct blurred vision, they don’t stop the structural changes in the eye. This is why childhood myopia often worsens year after year.

Why Does Myopia Happen?

Genetics

If you or your partner are nearsighted, your child has a higher risk of developing myopia. Children with one or both parents who are myopic are significantly more likely to inherit the condition.

Environment

Lifestyle and environment also play a big role. Children who spend long hours reading, studying, or using digital devices are more prone to myopia.

Modern habits, such as excessive screen time, indoor activities, and limited outdoor exposure, have been linked to rising rates of myopia worldwide. Conversely, children who spend more time outdoors in natural sunlight tend to have a lower risk of developing or worsening myopia.

Simple takeaway: extended screen use and too much “near work” can harm developing eyes.

Signs of Myopia in Children

Parents should watch for:

• Squinting when looking at distant objects
• Sitting too close to the TV or holding devices near the face
• Complaints of headaches or eye strain
• Trouble seeing the classroom board

If you notice these, schedule a comprehensive eye exam with an optometrist or ophthalmologist.

How to Protect Your Child’s Vision

The good news: parents can take steps to help prevent or slow myopia progression.

✅ Encourage outdoor play – Aim for at least 2 hours per day.
✅ Limit screen time – Set daily limits and encourage regular breaks.
✅ Get annual eye exams – Early detection makes a big difference.
✅ Ask about myopia management – Treatments like orthokeratology (Ortho-K) or specialized lenses can slow progression.

Final Thoughts

As a mother of children with myopia, I know how worrying it can be to see vision change year after year. But with early intervention, regular eye care, and lifestyle adjustments, you can help protect your child’s eyesight for the future.

👉 Don’t wait until symptoms worsen, schedule an eye exam today and take the first step toward managing your child’s myopia.