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Myopia
Myopia is a condition in which people cannot see distant objects, but can see close objects clearly. This is a focusing disorder in the eyes that is easily corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses, or surgery to remove glasses.
This condition is very common, so that more than 40% of Americans are diagnosed with myopia, according to the American Optometric Association. A number that is rising rapidly, especially among school-aged children. The exact cause of myopia is still unclear, but it is believed to be a combination of hereditary and environmental factors.
Myopia usually appears in childhood. Thus, about three-quarters of children with myopia are diagnosed between the ages of 3 and 12. Usually, the condition clears up, but it can get worse with age. Because the light entering your eyes is not properly focused, the images appear unclear.
People with myopia may notice:
- Distant objects appear blurry or nearby objects appear clear.
- Headaches
- Eye strain.
- Strabismus.
- Fatigue when driving, playing sports or looking more than a few meters away.
Some other symptoms of nearsightedness to look out for in your children include:
- Bad grades at school.
- Short attention span.
- Holding objects close to the face.
The eye doctor can diagnose myopia using standard eye exams. Myopia is usually diagnosed in childhood but can develop in adults as a result of eye pressure or diabetes.
For children, the first eye exam should be before the age of one, if possible. If there are no obvious eye problems, then it is better to be checked again before kindergarten. If a close family member with vision problems is known, it is better that the child be examined earlier. During a pediatric eye exam, the ophthalmologist will check for a constant light reflex and visual acuity. The American Optometric Association recommends comprehensive eye exams to catch vision conditions early when they can be more easily controlled for both children and adults.