As a parent, you want your little one to have the best vision possible. Part of that is being able to tell the first signs of visual issues like myopia. Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a common vision issue affecting many youngsters. But how can you tell whether your child is nearsighted? There are a few indicators that your child may have myopia, though they can be challenging to spot. 

What Is Nearsightedness?

When a person has myopia, close-up objects appear clear but distant ones appear hazy. It happens when light focuses on the retina instead of the cornea due to the eye's curvature. This refractive error can develop at any age, but it usually starts in infancy and adolescence.

Signs of Nearsightedness in Children

Nearsighted kids may display several symptoms that point to a visual issue. These include the following:
 

• Squinting: Your youngster may be attempting to correct their nearsightedness if they squint when looking at distant objects

• Frequent headaches: Myopia can result in headaches from eyestrain. This is particularly common after extended reading or screen time.

• Holding objects close to their face: How near to the face does your child hold books, tablets, or other things? If they hold them too close, it can mean they have problems seeing far away.

• Difficulty seeing the chalkboard: Nearsightedness may be present if your child struggles to see the chalkboard or whiteboard at school

• Rubbing their eyes: When youngsters rub their eyes a lot, nearsightedness-related eye discomfort may be the cause

• Tilted head or squinting one eye: Does your youngster squint or tilt their head when viewing far-off objects? If so, it can mean they are trying to adjust their vision.

Testing for Nearsightedness

Getting your child's eyesight checked is crucial if you think they might be nearsighted. To check for vision issues, your child's pediatrician or an eye doctor can do a comprehensive eye exam.

During the eye examination, the doctor will do several tests to gauge your child's visual acuity. Also, they will examine your child’s eye health for any issues. The doctor might suggest corrective lenses such as glasses or contact lenses if your child has nearsightedness.

Preventing Nearsightedness

Although nearsightedness is a prevalent vision issue, you can take precautions to lower your child's risk of developing it. Encouraging your little ones to spend time outside is one of the best strategies to prevent nearsightedness.

Studies link spending time outside to a lower risk of childhood nearsightedness. Scientists surmise this may be due to dopamine stimulation by natural light. This neurotransmitter aids in regulating the growth and development of the eye. Additionally, limit screen time and encourage frequent breaks during activities that require near focus. This can help reduce eyestrain and prevent nearsightedness.

Conclusion

Children of all ages may experience nearsightedness, a common vision issue. If you think your child is nearsighted, watch for the abovementioned symptoms. A comprehensive eye exam can identify nearsightedness and other vision issues. 

If necessary, corrective lenses can help your youngster see better. By encouraging outdoor activities and limiting screen time, you can help prevent nearsightedness and promote good eye health in your child.

For more on myopia, visit Inclima Eye Care at our office in West Haven, Connecticut. Call (203) 694-0418 to book an appointment today.