What is the Main Cause of Myopia?

The truth is scientists and doctors are still learning about myopia and the main causes of the disease. What’s known is several factors lead a child to develop myopia, including genetic, environmental, and even socioeconomic status.

Genetics 

Genetics do play a role in whether or not a child will develop myopia. If a child has one parent nearsighted or myopic, their chances increase. If both parents are myopic, those chances increase even greater. Be sure to get your child’s vision checked if you or your spouse are myopic. 

Screentime and ‘Near work’

More than ever before, kids all over the world are focusing their eyes on near objects for the majority of their day, whether using a smartphone, computer, tablet, or another device. Schoolwork and book reading count as well.

Studies continue to show that doing near work, especially in excess (more than 3 hours per day), contributes to the onset and progression of myopia.

Environmental Factors

Spending at least 2-3 hours outdoors has been shown to delay or prevent the onset of myopia. 2-3 hours may not be possible (especially in cold or hot months), but making a habit to go outside on a walk or play for a few minutes every day can help.

Your Child’s Height

The taller children and adolescents have a higher incidence of myopia than their shorter counterparts. This is likely due to grown spurts – as your child grows, so do their eyes.

Education level

There is a higher incidence of myopia in people with advanced degrees, as well as higher parental education levels. One theory is excessive near work and lack of time outdoors contribute to this.

Schedule Regular Screenings

To help prevent or manage myopia, it is essential to have regular eye screenings for your child. Doctors recommend yearly vision screenings either by your child’s pediatrician or their school as well as a vision screen at well-child visits through age 4. Newborn babies should also have their vision tested before they leave the hospital and before their child hits the age of 5.

Let TreeHouse Eyes Help Your Child Manage Myopia

Do you notice your children sitting too close to the TV, complaining of headaches or blurry vision, or have been rubbing their eyes frequently? If you want to find out if your child might have myopia, consult with Treehouse Eyes doctors who are able to develop personalized treatment plans for your child. We offer contact lenses for daytime and nighttime, and also special prescription eye drops. To help your child manage myopia, schedule a consultation now to find out more.

Check out real stories from satisfied parents and children sharing their experiences with our professional doctors, staff, and myopia treatment protocols at Treehouse Eyes.

Prevent serious, sight-robbing eye diseases by scheduling your child’s myopia consultation today. Contact your local Treehouse Eyes provider today and see your child’s quality of life improve before your eyes!