In recent years, myopia (nearsightedness) has become increasingly common, particularly among children. While genetics play a role, environmental factors and lifestyle changes are contributing to the rise in this vision condition. Understanding the causes, knowing how to prevent it, and exploring effective management strategies can help families protect their children’s eyesight.
 

Causes of Myopia

The prevalence of digital devices in our daily lives has made screen time an unavoidable part of modern living. However, prolonged focus on screens at close distances can place significant strain on the eyes, increasing the risk of developing myopia. This is particularly concerning for children who often use screens for both educational and recreational purposes without adequate breaks.
 

Another contributing factor to the rise of myopia is reduced outdoor activity. Spending less time outdoors limits exposure to natural light, which studies have shown plays a protective role in maintaining healthy vision. Children who spend most of their time indoors are more likely to develop myopia compared to those who engage in outdoor play regularly.
 

Genetics also play a significant role in myopia development. If one or both parents have myopia, their children are at a higher risk of inheriting the condition. While this factor cannot be controlled, understanding genetic predisposition can help families take preventive measures early on.
 

Lastly, engaging in close-up activities like reading, writing, or using tablets for extended periods without breaks can also contribute to eye strain and accelerate myopia progression. Encouraging regular breaks and promoting healthy reading habits can help reduce the impact of these activities on children's vision.
 

Preventing Myopia in Children

1. Encourage Outdoor Time: Research shows that spending at least 1–2 hours outdoors daily can help reduce the risk of developing myopia. Sunlight exposure plays a protective role in maintaining healthy vision.
 

2. Limit Screen Time: Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This reduces eye strain and helps relax the eye muscles.
 

3. Proper Lighting and Posture: Ensure children have good lighting when reading or using digital devices and encourage them to maintain a healthy distance from screens or books.
 

Management Strategies for Myopia

If your child has been diagnosed with myopia, there are several effective strategies can help manage its progression and protect their vision. With the right approach, you can ensure your child’s eyesight is well cared for and that they maintain a clear and comfortable vision.
 

One popular option for managing myopia is Orthokeratology (Ortho-K). These specialized contact lenses are worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea. Not only do Ortho-K lenses provide temporary vision correction, but they also slow the progression of myopia. They are an excellent choice for active kids who want a glasses-free lifestyle during the day, offering both convenience and effectiveness.
 

Another proven method is the use of low-dose atropine drops. These drops have been shown to effectively slow the progression of myopia in children. Easy to administer, atropine drops are a key component of many myopia management plans and are often recommended for children showing signs of rapid progression.
 

Regular eye exams are crucial in monitoring myopia and ensuring treatments remain effective. These exams allow eye doctors to track changes in vision and make necessary adjustments to the management plan. We encourage families to schedule annual comprehensive eye exams for their children, as early detection and proactive care are essential for maintaining optimal eye health.
 

Protect Your Family’s Vision with Ives Family Eye Care

We’re committed to helping families navigate the challenges of myopia. Whether your child needs an evaluation or is ready to start a management plan with Ortho-K lenses or atropine drops, we are here to guide you every step of the way.
 

Schedule a consultation with Ives Family Eye Care to learn more about our personalized myopia management strategies. Together, we can help your family enjoy a lifetime of clear, healthy vision. Visit our office in Miami, Florida, or call (786) 755-1800 to book an appointment today. We proudly serve residents in Aventura, Golden Beach, Sunny Isles Beach, North Miami, Ojus, Miramar and Hallandale, providing top-quality eye care to our neighboring communities.