How Myopia Affects Your Child’s Daily Life and Learning?

What is Myopia?

• Myopia or nearsightedness, is an ocular condition where distant objects appear blurry but can be seen clearly at near distance. Myopia is an increasing epidemic that can significantly affect a child’s daily life and ability to learn if left uncorrected. It can impact things such as:

Academic Performance

• Unable to see the board: Children with myopia may struggle to see what's written on the classroom board or projector screen, making it harder to follow the lesson.

• Difficulty concentrating: Poor vision can lead to decreased concentration, slower reading speeds, and can potentially affect performance on exams and homework assignments.

• Lower reading comprehension: Although near vision is typically better than distance vision in a myopic child, eye strain and fatigue can develop with prolonged close work such as reading and writing.

Social and Emotional Well-being

• A child with poor vision might feel inadequate or frustrated, which can affect their self-esteem. This may lead to withdrawal from group activities that require good distance vision such as sports, potentially limiting social interaction.

Difficulty in Sports

• Poor Hand-Eye Coordination: Blurred distance vision makes it difficult to play sports such as tracking a ball or other players, making sports an unpleasant experience for the child.

• Increased risk of injury: Myopia can also lead to accidents or injuries as a result of the reduced spatial awareness and depth perception.

Long- Term Eye Health Risks

• Progressive Myopia: Myopia often worsens as the child grows, increasing the risk of severe vision problems later in life, including:

  • Retinal detachment

  • Glaucoma

  • Macular degeneration

Digital Eye-Strain

• Children with Myopia may hold screens too close or use them excessively, which can worsen their condition.

• Experience headaches or digital eye-strain.

• Develop poor posture while using devices.

What Parents Can Do?

• Schedule annual comprehensive eye examinations

• Consider myopia control options such as:

  • Orthokeratology

  • Low-dose atropine drops

  • Specialized contact lenses

• Encourage daily outdoor time—research shows that spending time outdoors can slow the progression of myopia.

• Ensure good screen time habits such as the 20-20-20 rule.
   

Early intervention makes all the difference. If you suspect your child is struggling to see clearly, visit Express Vision or Call to book an eye exam today.