Signs Your Child Has Myopia

Myopia or nearsightedness is a vision condition that usually develops in childhood. The refractive error makes it difficult to see far objects. It happens when light entering the eyes focuses in front of, instead of on, the retina, causing blurry distance vision. Myopia is common in school-age children. Many parents do not realize their children are nearsighted. The following are signs your child could have myopia. 

Blurry Distant Vision

If your child complains that distant objects appear blurry, it could be due to myopia. If your child sits close to the TV to see clearly, it could be a sign of myopia. The inability to see distant objects causes the child to struggle to see the classroom board. 

Holding Objects Close to the Face

If your child constantly holds objects close to their face to see clearly, it could be due to myopia. Children with nearsightedness hold books or digital devices close to their eyes when reading. It is a clear sign of myopia. 

Frequent Squinting

Squinting is a common sign of myopia. When the eyes struggle to focus, squinting can temporarily correct the issue. The “pinhole effect” causes a change in eye muscle tension, providing brief clarity for those with mild myopia. 

Rubbing the Eyes 

Children often rub their eyes as a sign of discomfort. It could indicate the beginning of a headache. Rubbing the eyes could be due to eyestrain from myopia or excessive screen time. Limiting your child’s digital device use can reduce discomfort. 

Constant Headaches

If your child constantly complains of headaches, it could indicate vision problems. Headaches are a common symptom of eye conditions and refractive errors, especially myopia. However, headaches could also indicate allergies and other health conditions. If your child suffers from frequent headaches, schedule an eye checkup to determine if it is due to myopia. 

Closing One Eye When Reading 

If your child covers or closes one eye to read, it could be a sign of myopia. Just like squinting, closing the eye can improve the vision. It happens when one eye has a stronger vision. The child will usually cover the weak eye to enhance the clarity of the stronger one. 

Excessive Blinking 

If you notice your child blinking more than usual, it could be due to myopia. Excessive blinking may be an attempt to clear the vision. The action helps spread tears over the eye’s surface. This provides nutrition and washes away debris. It creates a smooth surface for light to enter the eye.

Excess Eye Watering

Excess eye watering or tearing may be due to myopia. Discomfort from nearsightedness can cause watery eyes, a symptom often confused with allergies or eye irritation. An eye exam can help you know if consistent watering is due to a refractive error. 

It is necessary to know that children may not realize they have an eyesight problem. As a parent, you must look for subtle signs indicating your child needs an eye checkup. Your child may be unaware of people or objects at a distance. Ask your child if they can see things at a distance. Scheduling regular eye exams will help monitor your child’s vision and eye health. 

For more signs your child has myopia, visit Advanced Vision Institute at our Las Vegas, Nevada office. Call (702) 819-9800 to schedule an appointment today.