Visual Acuity Test
Measures how well the child can see objects at different distances using a letter or symbol chart.
Our focus is on the health of your eyes.
Introduction
Understanding Myopia in Children
Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a common vision condition in which faraway objects look blurry while close ones stay clear. It happens when the eyeball grows too long or the cornea is too curved, so light does not focus properly on the retina.
In children it is a particular concern because it tends to get worse over time. Higher levels of myopia raise the risk of serious conditions later in life, including retinal detachment, glaucoma and cataracts.
Causes
Causes of Myopia
- Genetics: myopia often runs in families. A child is more likely to develop it when one or both parents are nearsighted.
- Environmental factors: long periods of screen use or close-up work, such as reading and using devices, can contribute to progression.
- Other factors: spending little time outdoors has been linked to a higher risk of developing myopia.
Warning signs
Symptoms to Watch for in Your Child
- 1Complains of blurry vision when looking at faraway objects
- 2Squints often to see more clearly
- 3Has difficulty keeping up at school
- 4Shows less interest in outdoor activities
- 5Eye tiredness from straining to see in the distance
- 6Headaches from straining to see in the distance
Diagnosis
Screening Tests and Diagnosis
To diagnose myopia and judge how serious it is, an optometrist may use the following tests.
Refraction Test
Determines the exact prescription needed for glasses or contact lenses.
Axial Length Measurement
Evaluates the length of the eyeball, a key indicator of myopia progression.