Myopia Explained: When Should Your Child Start Myopia Management?

Myopia is becoming increasingly common among children today. It’s a condition where distant objects appear blurry while close-up vision remains clear. Early detection and proper management are key to slowing its progression and protecting long-term eye health. At Crystal View Optometry, we offer myopia management in Elk Grove and Grass Valley to help ensure your child enjoys clear, healthy vision for years to come.
 

What Is Myopia?

Myopia occurs when the eyeball grows too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This leads to blurry distance vision. While glasses or contact lenses can correct the blur, they do not stop the eye from continuing to grow - and as myopia progresses, the risk of eye diseases like retinal detachment, glaucoma, and macular degeneration increases later in life.
 

What Causes Myopia?

Genetics play a role - children with one or both nearsighted parents are more likely to develop myopia. However, environmental factors such as limited outdoor time, prolonged screen use, and excessive near work (like reading or tablet use) have also been shown to increase risk. Encouraging outdoor play for at least two hours per day and balancing screen time can help reduce this risk.
 

When Should Myopia Management Begin?

The ideal time to start myopia management is as soon as the condition is detected. Most children begin showing signs between ages 6 and 12, but in some cases, it can start earlier. Early intervention helps slow eye growth and reduce the likelihood of severe nearsightedness later on.

Common signs to watch for:

• Squints to see distant objects

• Sits too close to the TV or holds devices close to their face

• Complains of headaches or eye strain

• Has difficulty seeing the board at school

At Crystal View Optometry, we conduct comprehensive eye exams that measure your child’s prescription, eye health, and eye growth to determine if myopia control treatments are necessary.
 

Effective Myopia Management Options

Modern advancements in eye care have made it possible to slow the progression of myopia using specialty contact lenses and atropine eye drops. These treatment options work by helping to control how the eye grows and focuses, reducing the risk of myopia worsening over time. Your optometrist will carefully evaluate your child’s vision, prescription, and lifestyle to determine the most effective approach for long-term eye health and clear vision
 

Protect Your Child’s Vision with Early Myopia Management

Myopia can progress quickly during childhood, but with early detection and the right treatment approach, its advancement can be significantly slowed. By taking action early, you can help ensure your child enjoys clearer, healthier vision well into the future.

If you’ve noticed signs of vision changes, schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Crystal View Optometry to discuss personalized myopia management options. Please call (916) 681-1101 for our office in Elk Grove, or call (530) 272-2238 for our office in Grass Valley.