What Is Myopia? Understanding Causes, Risks, and Management
Struggling to see faraway signs? Noticing your child squinting more often? You’re not alone. Myopia—also called nearsightedness—is one of the most common vision conditions today. And it’s rising fast, especially among kids. In this post, we’ll help you understand what myopia is, what causes it, who’s at risk, and the best ways to manage or slow it down.
What Exactly Is Myopia?
Myopia happens when the eye grows too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This makes distant objects appear blurry, while nearby things stay clear. It often begins in childhood and tends to worsen over time.
Common Causes of Myopia
While genetics play a strong role, myopia is also influenced by environment and daily habits. Key causes include:
Family history – If one or both parents are nearsighted, the risk is higher.
Too much screen or close-up time – Reading, homework, and device use without breaks can strain growing eyes.
Not enough time outdoors – Natural light helps regulate healthy eye growth.
Why Should You Care?
Mild myopia is usually managed with glasses or contacts. But when it progresses into high myopia, it increases the risk of serious eye health problems later in life—like:
Retinal detachment
Glaucoma
Early cataracts
Macular degeneration
This is why early detection and proactive management are so important—especially for children whose eyes are still developing.
Myopia in Children: A Growing Trend
More kids are developing myopia at younger ages. And the earlier it starts, the more likely it is to progress. Warning signs include:
Squinting to see the board or TV
Sitting too close to screens
Frequent headaches or eye fatigue
Declining school performance
At VODA Eyecare, we recommend starting annual eye exams early—even if your child doesn’t complain.
How We Manage Myopia at VODA
We offer several evidence-based tools to help manage myopia and slow its progression:
1. Eyeglasses & Contact Lenses
Standard corrections for clear vision.
2. Myopia Control Options
Low-dose atropine eye drops
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) – special overnight lenses
Multifocal soft contact lenses
MiYOSMART or Stellest lenses – glasses made specifically to slow myopia
3. Lifestyle Habits
Play outside for at least 2 hours a day
Use the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds
Keep a healthy reading distance
Book a Myopia Evaluation
Myopia doesn’t have to mean lifelong complications. With early care and the right plan, you can protect your child’s sight—and your own.
Located in Suwanee, GA
We welcome kids and adults for comprehensive eye exams and customized myopia treatment plans.
