7 Tips for Parents to Prevent Myopia Progression in Children

Myopia (nearsightedness) is when your eye lens does not focus the light properly, causing distant objects to appear blurry. It usually develops in children from 12 but can also occur much earlier in life. Myopia development affects children’s learning because 80% of the information they receive is through vision, so their vision problems can lead to difficulty reading signs or keeping up with lessons.

You can slow the progression of myopia with like daylight exposure and other ways. But, it is recommended to work with a Mahogany optometrist to develop the ideal treatment plan.

Risk Factors of Myopia in Children

Several risk factors can predispose one to myopia, and these include:

• Genetics

Although there is currently no definitive genetic cause for myopia, studies suggest that nearsightedness run in families. Several of these factors can be inherited, but there is still some uncertainty in the connection between genetics and myopia. The refraction of children with two myopic parents is slightly higher than those with one myopic parent.

• Environment

Genetic factors do have some effect on eye growth, but environmental factors are the major factors in the development of myopia. Children who spend less time outdoors may have an increased risk of developing myopia. In addition, some children may have an allergic condition, which may increase the risk of myopia.

• Age

If myopia occurs early (before age 12), it can worsen more rapidly, resulting in a lighter degree of myopia. This is because the eyes develop rapidly during this time, meaning the misshaping of the cornea increases too.

• Screen time

Spending too much time on computers and smart devices increases the risk of developing myopia.

7 Tips on How to Prevent Myopia Progression in Children

There are several simple ways to prevent myopia progression in children

• Increased outdoor play

One of the myopia’s most common preventative measures is encouraging outdoor activity. Children who spend long periods outdoors are less likely to develop myopia.

Children who participate in physical activities outdoors for more than an hour per day are less likely to progress to myopia than those who spend a shorter amount of time outdoors. This protective association may be related to exposure to sunlight and focusing on distant objects. However, the exact mechanism for this effect remains unclear.

• Corrective lenses 

Corrective lenses are the common treatment of myopia. They are used to reduce the amount of light that enters the eye and help us focus on objects at a distance from us. In some cases, people who wear glasses or contact lenses may still experience progression in their nearsightedness. It is therefore recommended to seek myopia management in Calgary, and an eye specialist will choose the correct treatment.

• Discourage digital device addiction 

Digital device addiction has become a major concern, especially for children. Using devices like tablets and smartphones can lead to myopia progression.

Try to limit the time spent on video games or watching TV. You can also make sure they take breaks every 20 minutes to rest their eyes.

• Ensuring a Good Night’s Sleep

Establish a habit of sleeping simultaneously and create a calm and relaxing environment in your child’s bedroom, free from bright lights and screens. Finally, avoid giving your child caffeine or sugary drinks before bedtime, as these can make it more difficult to fall asleep.

• Eating Whole Foods for More Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Whole foods are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for eye health. Omega-3 fatty acids can protect the eyes from damage and reduce inflammation. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, mackerel, sardines, herring, and anchovies.

• Using Proper Lighting

Proper lighting is important for children to see clearly and avoid eye strain. Use natural light whenever possible by opening curtains and blinds during the day to let in as much sunlight as possible. Use low-wattage bulbs in your child’s room at night to minimize glare and reduce eye strain.

• Eye exercises

Staring at a distance has been theorized to help improve myopia. However, while it cannot cure nearsightedness, it can help with eye strain. The rule of thumb is the 20-20-20, meaning staring at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes.

Although myopia has no cure, you can use these tips to slow the progression. It is crucial to seek myopia control in Calgary to get the best treatment option.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Premier Eye Care for more information about myopia and how you can slow down the progression.