Signs That Your Child Has Myopia

An increasing number of children require corrective lenses for nearsightedness. Studies suggest that almost half of all school-going children have myopia. The condition usually develops in childhood through to early adulthood. Scheduling regular eye exams helps monitor children for eye conditions. As a parent, you must watch for signs that your child may be struggling to see clearly. 

Frequent Squinting

If your child squints when looking at distant objects, it could be a sign of myopia. Squinting temporarily clears the vision by narrowing the entrance to the pupil and creating a pinhole effect. Squinting obstructs scattered light entering the retina, improving the clarity of the object in sight. It can clear up blurry vision briefly.

Excessive Blinking

Blinking is vital for maintaining clear vision. The action helps spread the tear film, keeping the eye surface clear and moisturized. Tears create a smooth surface, allowing light rays to enter the eye effectively. If your child blinks excessively when looking at distant objects, it could be a response to blurry vision. It is an attempt by the eyes to maintain a healthy tear film.

Rubbing the Eyes

Frequent rubbing of the eyes is a common sign of fatigue or strain. It is unclear why people form the habit. It is believed placing pressure on the eyes can cause the release of tears that helps relieve dryness. 

Eye rubbing can temporarily relieve itchy eyes, providing brief moments of clear vision. But it is vital to know that constant eye rubbing is harmful. Besides the risk of transferring germs and bacteria to the eyes, pressure can damage the eyes. 

Frequent Headaches

If your child experiences frequent headaches, it could be due to uncorrected myopia. Headaches are symptoms of various health and eye conditions, making it necessary to get a proper diagnosis. Eyestrain can cause headaches that feel like constant pressure in the head. They may also feel like an ache in the front part of the head. Headaches caused by vision issues usually worsen as the day progresses and often occur daily.  

Holding Reading Material Close to the Face

If your child often holds books and other reading material close to the face, it could be due to myopia. Children with the condition find that holding the book at normal distance results in blur. Placing the material close to their eyes helps them see clearly, whether they are reading, watching videos, or playing games.  

Other Signs of Myopia

Other signs that indicate your child has myopia include sitting too close to the TV and covering one eye. A large difference in prescription between the eyes is known as anisometropia. It can cause the child to cover one eye to see clearly. 

Being unaware of objects at a distance may indicate that your child is experiencing problems with distant vision. Your child may complain of the eyes feeling strained or tired. It is crucial to look for signs of myopia in your child. Poor vision can cause learning problems and difficulty performing various activities.

For more signs that your child has myopia, visit Perspective Eye Care and Eye Wear at our Cullman, AL office. Call (256) 692-1464 to schedule an appointment today.