What Causes Nearsightedness in Children? Understanding the Risk Factors

Nearsightedness, also known as myopia, is becoming increasingly common in children. It affects their ability to see distant objects clearly while nearby objects remain in focus. As childhood myopia rates continue to rise, parents must understand the causes, risk factors, and the importance of early intervention through pediatric eye exams and myopia management.

What Causes Nearsightedness in Children?

Myopia occurs when the eyeball grows too long or the cornea has excessive curvature, causing light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it. While the exact causes of myopia are still being studied, several contributing factors have been identified.

1. Genetic Factors

A significant risk factor for myopia is family history. If one or both parents are nearsighted, their child is more likely to develop myopia. While genetics play a role, environmental influences can also determine the severity and progression of myopia.

2. Increased Screen Time and Near Work

Children today spend more time on screens—tablets, smartphones, computers, and televisions—than ever before. Excessive close-up work, including reading and using digital devices, can contribute to the development and progression of myopia. Studies suggest that prolonged near work may lead to eye strain and adaptive changes in the eye’s shape.

3. Lack of Outdoor Time

Spending time outdoors has been shown to reduce the risk of developing myopia. Natural light exposure and engaging in activities that require distance vision help slow eye elongation, a key factor in myopia progression. Children who spend more time indoors and less time playing outside are at a higher risk of developing nearsightedness.

4. Early Onset of Myopia

Children who develop myopia at an early age are more likely to experience rapid progression. If left unmanaged, myopia can continue to worsen throughout childhood and adolescence, leading to higher prescriptions and increased risks of eye conditions later in life, such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.

The Importance of Regular Pediatric Eye Exams

Routine eye exams play a crucial role in detecting and managing myopia in children. Many children may not realize they have vision problems, making early detection essential. Pediatric eye exams allow Dr. Rojas to:

•          Assess overall eye health and detect early signs of myopia

•          Monitor changes in vision and prescription over time

•          Provide tailored treatment options to manage myopia progression

The American Optometric Association recommends that children undergo comprehensive eye exams at least once a year, especially if they have a family history of myopia or other vision concerns.

The Role of Myopia Management

Traditional glasses and contact lenses correct vision but do not slow myopia progression. Myopia management, however, aims to control its progression and reduce the long-term risks associated with high myopia. Some effective myopia management strategies include:

•          Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Specially designed overnight contact lenses that reshape the cornea, temporarily correcting myopia and slowing progression.

•          Multifocal Contact Lenses: Designed to reduce eye strain and slow the elongation of the eye.

•          Low-Dose Atropine Eye Drops: A medication that helps slow myopia progression by relaxing the eye’s focusing mechanism.

Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam with Innovista Eye Today

Nearsightedness in children is influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. With myopia rates rising, regular pediatric eye exams are essential in detecting vision problems early and implementing effective myopia management strategies. By taking proactive steps, parents can help protect their child’s vision and reduce the long-term risks associated with high myopia.

If your child is showing signs of nearsightedness or has a family history of myopia, schedule an eye exam with Innovista Eye. Visit our office in Boerne, Texas, or call (210) 526-2020 to learn more about our myopia management options and how we can help safeguard your child’s eyesight.