Sep232025
Child eye check-up for myopia at Maxivision

Rising Myopia in Children: Causes, Risks, and Modern Treatment Options

Introduction

Over the last two decades, the number of children diagnosed with myopia (short-sightedness) has been rising at an alarming rate. Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long, causing light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it. This makes distant objects look blurry, while close objects remain clear.

In India, where digital learning and screen exposure are increasing, cases of childhood myopia are becoming more common. Parents often ask: Why is my child becoming short-sighted so early? Can it be treated? Will it get worse as they grow?

The good news is that modern myopia treatment options can manage progression and protect long-term vision. With early detection and proper care, children can enjoy clear eyesight and a better quality of life.

Understanding Myopia in Children

What is Myopia?

Myopia, also known as short-sightedness, is a refractive error where children struggle to see distant objects clearly. For example, they may have difficulty reading the classroom board but can read a book comfortably up close.

Causes of Myopia

  • Genetics: Children with one or both parents who are short-sighted are more likely to develop myopia.
  • Lifestyle Factors: Increased screen time, prolonged indoor activity, and limited exposure to natural daylight contribute significantly.
  • Visual Stress: Continuous close-up work, such as studying, reading, or using digital devices, can strain young eyes.

Signs & Symptoms of Myopia in Children

Parents should watch out for early warning signs:

  • Squinting when looking at distant objects.
  • Sitting too close to the TV or holding books very close.
  • Complaints of headaches or eye strain.
  • Difficulty seeing the board in class.

Recognising these signs early is crucial to starting timely treatment for short-sightedness.

Risks of Untreated Myopia

While many parents assume glasses are enough, untreated or progressive myopia can lead to serious complications in adulthood:

  • High Myopia Risks: Severe short-sightedness increases the risk of retinal detachment, glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration.
  • Academic & Social Impact: Children with poor vision may struggle with studies, sports, and overall confidence.
  • Long-Term Vision Health: Without effective myopia treatment, eyesight can continue to deteriorate each year, making management more challenging.

This is why proactive care and early intervention matter.

Modern Myopia Treatment Options

Today’s myopia treatment approaches go beyond just prescribing glasses. Specialists recommend a combination of corrective lenses, medical therapy, and lifestyle modifications personalised to each child’s needs.

1. Glasses and Contact Lenses

  • Prescription Glasses: The most common and simplest way to correct blurred distance vision.
  • Contact Lenses: For older children, daily disposable lenses provide clarity and comfort.
  • Special Myopia Control Lenses: Advanced spectacle lenses are now available to slow down myopia progression.

2. Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)

These are specially designed rigid contact lenses worn overnight to reshape the cornea gently. By morning, children can see clearly without glasses during the day. Ortho-K also helps slow the progression of short-sightedness.

3. Medicated Eye Drops (Low-Dose Atropine)

Low-dose atropine drops have been proven to slow down eye growth in children, effectively reducing the speedy progression of myopia. Treatment usually lasts for 1–2 years under medical supervision.

4. Advanced Surgical Options (For Adults and Older Teens)

For older patients whose eye growth has stabilised, procedures such as LASIK, SMILE, and Contoura Vision offer permanent correction. While these aren’t recommended for young children, they are effective solutions for long-term short-sightedness treatment once the eyes mature.

5. Lifestyle Modifications

  • Encourage at least 2 hours of outdoor activity daily. Natural light plays a big role in healthy eye development.
  • Limit screen exposure by following the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away).
  • Ensure children read or study in well-lit environments.

By combining medical and lifestyle approaches, modern myopia treatment provides both correction and control.

Prevention and Aftercare for Myopia

Even if your child already has myopia, simple lifestyle changes can reduce its impact:

  • Balanced Screen Time: Limit recreational screen time, particularly in the hours leading up to bedtime.
  • Outdoor Play: Sunlight exposure helps prevent rapid eye growth that leads to myopia.
  • Regular Eye Checkups: Annual eye exams are crucial for early detection and for tracking the effectiveness of treatments.
  • Parental Role: Actively monitor your child’s study habits, encourage outdoor sports, and schedule timely follow-ups.

Good aftercare ensures that short-sightedness treatment delivers lasting results.

FAQs About Myopia in Children

At present, myopia cannot be permanently reversed in children. However, with proper myopia treatment, its progression can be slowed significantly.

Laser eye surgeries like LASIK or SMILE are usually performed after the age of 18, once the eyes stop growing. Until then, non-surgical short-sightedness treatment is recommended.

Yes. Prolonged near work and digital device usage without breaks increases the risk of childhood myopia. Balanced screen time and outdoor activity are critical.

Modern interventions such as atropine drops, ortho-k lenses, and specialised glasses can slow progression by 30–60%. Effectiveness varies by child, so regular follow-ups are key.

Severe untreated myopia increases the risk of vision-threatening conditions like retinal detachment. Early short-sightedness treatment greatly reduces this risk.

One Vision: To Keep Yours Clear

The rise in childhood myopia may sound alarming, but parents today have access to highly effective treatments that weren’t available a decade ago. By combining the right medical care, preventive strategies, and lifestyle adjustments, children can grow up with healthier vision.

If you notice signs of blurred distance vision in your child, don’t delay an eye exam. Early detection is the key to successful myopia treatment and long-term eye health.

For trusted pediatric and advanced short-sightedness treatment, parents can rely on Maxivision Eye Hospitals, where compassionate care meets cutting-edge eye solutions.