Childhood myopia

Myopia is a refractive defect where the images are focused in front of the retina rather than on it, causing blurred vision. Unlike hyperopia, this defect takes place either because the eyeball is too long or, more rarely, because the optical strength of the cornea and the lens are larger than necessary . There are also some hereditary factors that cause myopia. It is rare in breastfeeding infants and it is usually associated with other diseases. Myopia develops during school age and can  increase until the age of 18 or later since it is associated with the growth of the eyeball.

Children with myopia can see near objects clearly, but to them distant objects appear blurry and out of focus. Many children are not aware that they can’t see properly, because myopia appears gradually and if it does not get diagnosed and treated in time, it can lead to school failure in many cases. Children with myopia tend to squint to see distant objects properly. And in those cases with high prescriptions, they tend to get too close to their notebooks or books or to sit too close to the TV.

Unlike hyperopia, myopia must always be corrected. However, children with low prescriptions can remove their glasses to read or do their homework . The usual treatment for children is the use of prescription glasses. In the same way that happens with hyperopia, contact lenses can also be used, depending on the age and cooperation level of the child.