Myopia is a common eye disorder often encountered during childhood, which can hinder clear vision of distant objects. School-age children's education and daily lives may be particularly negatively affected by this condition. Symptoms of myopia may include clear vision of nearby objects, blurred vision of distant objects, frequent headaches, and a decrease in school performance.
What is Myopia?
Myopia is a defect of not being able to see distant objects clearly. When the eye's refractive power increases, incoming rays focus in front of the retina, resulting in a blurred image. This condition is also commonly referred to as a distance vision disorder.
What is Myopic Astigmatism in Children?
Myopic astigmatism is the simultaneous presence of both myopia and astigmatism refractive errors in children. This combination can cause images to be perceived not only as blurry but also as wavy or distorted.
In astigmatism, the cornea or the eye lens, which forms the front surface of the eye, has a more oval curvature instead of the normal round shape, leading to the inability to focus light evenly on the retina.
What Causes Myopia in Children?
Myopia can occur due to a combination of environmental and genetic factors. Common causes are as follows:
Genetic Factors
Myopia is more frequent in children with myopic parents. If either parent is myopic, the probability of the child being myopic varies between 30-40%, while if both parents are myopic, this rate can increase up to 50-60%.
Lack of Outdoor Activity
It shows that children who spend at least 2 hours outside every day have a lower risk of developing myopia.
Vitamin Deficiency and Diet
Insufficient intake of vitamins A, C, and E, which are important for eye health, along with Omega-3 fatty acids, can negatively affect eye development.
Screen Usage
Prolonged screen time, reading books, or engaging in activities that involve focusing closely are known to potentially accelerate the development of myopia. Factors that trigger myopia include insufficient natural light and persistent focusing on close distances.
What Are the Symptoms of Myopia in Children?
The development of myopia in children may not always manifest with clear symptoms. Especially younger children may find it difficult to express or even notice their vision problems, making it important for parents to carefully observe their children's visual behavior.
The following situations can indicate the development of myopia:
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Inability to read writing on the board
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Watching television from a very close distance
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Squinting
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Frequent headaches and eye fatigue
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Getting very close to the paper while reading or writing
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Lack of attention and decrease in school performance
Does Myopia Progress in Children?
Myopia shows a progressive course during childhood. It is observed that myopia can progress rapidly, especially between the ages of 6-18. Factors such as increased screen usage, decreased outdoor activities, and genetic predisposition can accelerate the progression of myopia.
How Can the Development of Myopia in Children Be Slowed Down?
There are several methods to slow down the progression of myopia.
1. Atropine Drops
Low concentration atropine drops (0.01%) may be a potential solution to reduce the progression of myopia. These drops are recommended to be used under doctor's supervision and can help control eye growth by relaxing the eye muscles.
2. Ortho-K Lenses (Night Lenses)
The Ortho-K lenses used at night are special contact lenses worn during sleep and can temporarily reshape the cornea to slow down the progression of myopia.
3. Outdoor Activities
Spending at least 2 hours outside every day can have a significant slowing effect on the progression of myopia.
4. Limiting Digital Screen Usage
Reducing the time spent in front of the computer screen and adhering to the 20-20-20 rule can help relax the eyes and prevent the progression of myopia.
How Is Myopia Treated in Children?
In children with myopia, the condition may not improve on its own, but it can be slowed down or controlled by taking appropriate measures.
Methods used in the treatment of myopia include:
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Glasses Usage: This is the most preferred treatment option for children.
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Atropine Drops: Atropine is a medication that dilates the pupil. Low-dose atropine eye drops are prescribed to slow the progression of myopia.
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Ortho-K (Night Lens) Application: Ortho-K lenses are special lenses worn during sleep that temporarily correct the shape of the cornea to provide clear vision throughout the day when removed in the morning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can myopia be completely cured in children?
Myopia is a refractive error and can be corrected using visual aids such as glasses or contact lenses; however, it is not expected to completely heal on its own. Some modern treatment methods can slow the progression of myopia.
When does the progression of myopia in children slow down?
Myopia typically begins in childhood and can continue to progress until the late teenage years. After the eye structure stabilizes, around ages 18-20, the progression may slow down or stop, but this can vary from person to person.
How can the progression of myopia be detected?
If the child can no longer recognize objects they previously saw clearly or requires frequent increases in their eyeglass prescription, myopia may be progressing. The progression can be clearly monitored through refractive error measurements performed by an eye doctor.
Does digital screen usage cause myopia in children?
Screen usage does not directly cause myopia; however, prolonged focusing at close range can contribute to eye fatigue and the development of myopia. This effect can become more pronounced in children who have reduced outdoor activities in natural light.
