What causes myopia?
Myopia, also known as short-sightedness or near-sightedness, is a common eye condition where distant objects appear blurry, while close-up vision remains clear. This happens because the eye is slightly longer than normal from front to back, causing light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it. Myopia can vary in severity, and without proper myopia management, it can progress over time.
Genetics: A child with one or both parents who are myopic has a higher risk of developing the condition.
Ethnicity: children of East Asian heritage are more likely to develop myopia.
Lifestyle: Prolonged periods of close-up activities like reading or using screens (phones, tablets, laptops) may contribute, though the evidence isn’t conclusive.
Limited Outdoor Time: Spending less time outdoors has been linked to a higher risk of myopia development.
Signs and Symptoms of Myopia
If your child has myopia, they may experience:
- Difficulty seeing distant objects clearly
- Frequent squinting or narrowing of their eyes to focus
- Sitting closer to the TV or holding devices very close to their face
- Complaints of headaches or tired eyes after looking at distant objects
Myopia can only be diagnosed through a professional eye test with an optometrist, who can determine its presence and severity.
Importance of early detection
Detecting myopia early is crucial in managing its progression and preserving your child’s long-term eye health. Left untreated, myopia can increase the risk of developing more serious eye conditions later in life, such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and cataracts. Regular children’s eye tests allow for early intervention and the best possible outcomes.
Myopia management solutions at Bayfields
We offer a comprehensive range of myopia management treatments tailored to your child’s needs:
Specialist Soft Contact Lenses: Our Misight contact lenses are designed specifically to slow the progression of myopia in children.
Specialist Spectacle Lenses: ZEISS MyoCare lenses provide an innovative way to manage myopia while offering clear and comfortable vision.
Ortho-K Lenses: Available at selected Bayfields practices, these overnight contact lenses gently reshape the eye’s surface, providing clear vision without the need for daytime glasses or contact lenses.
Traditional Glasses and Contact Lenses: If myopia management isn’t the right fit for your child, we also offer high-quality traditional eyewear solutions.
Why Choose Bayfields Opticians for Myopia Care?
At Bayfields, we’re committed to providing expert eye care and innovative solutions tailored to your child’s vision health needs. Our highly trained optometrists use the latest technology and research-backed treatments to manage myopia effectively. We take a personal approach, ensuring your family receives the best advice and care in a warm and supportive environment.
Book an eye test at Bayfields today and take the first step toward protecting your child’s vision for the future. We have practices across the UK offering leading myopia control and management treatments.
