Risks of Myopia

Myopia comes with its own series of risk factors which must be taken into account if your child is presenting with symptoms.

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Risk Factor 1: Education

The prevalence of myopia is particularly apparent at schools. As children progress up the academic ladder, devoting their time to school work, so too do instances of myopia. This could be due to the massive amount of near work involved, in which case parents must take measures to manage their children’s vision throughout their school years.

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Risk Factor 2: Use of Screens

The prevalence of laptops and smartphones means that children and adults alike are far more likely to be at risk of myopia. Looking at screens is another form of near work, and contributes to the development of myopia, especially if done in a dark space. Putting a limit on time spent browsing and scrolling is a means to curb myopia progression.

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Risk Factor 3: Genetics

Genetics is a pivotal factor in the development of myopia. If one or both of a child’s parents has myopia, then that child is at greater risk of developing the condition. In these cases, it is crucial for parents to have their child’s vision checked as early and as frequently as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

We’re here to answer some questions you might have about myopia and its risks.

Traditional eyeglasses can in fact make your myopia worse. There are many factors to consider. Wearing no glasses can also make myopia accelerate faster. But understanding central and peripheral focus, distant and near focus, and the impact of the prescription on these different factors will dictate whether the myopia will increase or slows its progression. It is complicated, and it needs to be part of an overall wellness treatment programme, prescribed by a knowledgeable practitioner in these areas.

Spending more time outdoors is effective in curbing the progression of myopia, especially if it goes hand in hand with less screen time. However, if myopia has manifested itself then an a vision assessment must be undergone and a means of control administered.

A Smart Vision Optometrist will help you gauge the point at which you or your child’s myopia should treated. This is after they consider factors such as genetics, time spent outdoors, and excessive near work.