A Parent's Guide To Identify Myopia In Children: Signs And Symptoms
Myopia, commonly known as near-sightedness, is a common eye condition that affects many children. Identifying the signs and symptoms early is crucial for proper intervention and care. Based on a recent research study conducted by EssilorLuxoticca, ~5 % out of 30000 children surveyed between 2-4 years of age had myopia. The prevalence of myopia among students appears to escalate with age. Among the surveyed 23,000 students aged 8-12 years, approximately 10.7% were found to be myopic. This figure significantly rises to 22% when considering the surveyed 25,000 students in the age group of 12 years and above.
Below mentioned are some of the signs and symptoms that can help parents identify signs of myopia in children:
Signs and Symptoms:
• Squinting: One of the earliest signs of myopia is squinting. Children with myopia often squint to see distant objects more clearly. It could indicate myopia if you notice your child squinting, especially when looking at the chalkboard, television, or signs in the distance.
• Frequent Eye Rubbing: Children may rub their eyes frequently if they are experiencing eyestrain or fatigue due to myopia. If your child complains of tired eyes or rubs them frequently, it's essential to consider the possibility of myopia.
• Sitting close to the TV or Screen: Myopic children may sit close to the television or hold electronic devices closer than usual. This behaviour indicates difficulty in seeing distant objects.
• Decline in Academic Performance: Myopia can affect a child's academic performance. If your child's grades are slipping, they may need help seeing the board or reading materials from a distance.
• Frequent Headaches: Eyestrain caused by myopia can lead to headaches, especially after activities that require focused vision, such as reading or using digital devices.
• Avoidance of Outdoor Activities: Research suggests that outdoor time may help prevent myopia or slow its progression. It might be worth investigating their vision if your child actively avoids outdoor activities and prefers indoor pursuits.
• Regular Complaints of Blurred Vision: If your child frequently complains of blurred vision, especially when looking at distant objects, it is clear that an eye examination is necessary.
Preventive Measures and Seeking Professional Help:
• Regular Eye Check-ups: Schedule regular eye check-ups for your child, even if they do not display any obvious signs of vision problems. Early detection of myopia allows for timely intervention.
• Encourage Outdoor Activities: Promote outdoor activities to reduce the risk of myopia development. Spending time outdoors has been linked to a lower incidence of myopia in children.
• Monitor Screen Time: Limit screen time and encourage the 20-20-20 rule – taking a 20-second break every 20 minutes and looking at something 20 feet away.
• Provide Adequate Lighting: Ensure your child's study and play areas are well-lit to reduce eye strain.
Being vigilant about your child's vision is crucial for their overall well-being. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of myopia early empowers the parents to take proactive measures and seek professional help when necessary. Regular eye check-ups, outdoor activities, and a balanced approach to screen time are essential to maintain good eye health in children. By staying informed and observant, parents can contribute significantly to their children's visual health and academic success.
