Recognising Signs of Myopia in Children: What to Look Out For As A Parent?

Detecting myopia (nearsightedness) in a child can sometimes be challenging, as children might not always be aware of vision changes or might not communicate them effectively. Here are some signs to look out for that could indicate myopia in a child:

• Squinting or Frowning : If your child frequently squints or frowns while looking at distant objects, it could be a sign that they are trying to compensate for blurry vision.

• Sitting Too Close : If your child consistently sits very close to the TV, computer, or while reading, it might be an attempt to see things more clearly due to myopia.

• Holding Books or Devices Close : Similarly, if your child holds books, tablets, or phones very close to their face while reading or using them, it could indicate myopia.

• Complaints of Blurry Vision : If your child complains of difficulty seeing distant objects clearly, such as signs, chalkboards, or people from a distance, it could be a sign of myopia.

• Frequent Eye Rubbing : Excessive rubbing of the eyes might indicate eye strain caused by myopia.

• Headaches : Myopia can lead to eye strain, which might result in frequent headaches, especially after activities that involve focusing on near objects.

• Difficulty Seeing in Low Light : Myopia can make it challenging to see clearly in dim lighting or at night.

• Changes in Academic Performance : If your child's academic performance drops unexpectedly, it could be due to difficulty seeing clearly in the classroom.

• Regular Eye Squinting : If your child often squints, closes one eye, or tilts their head to see better, it might be a sign of myopia.

• Family History : If there is a family history of myopia, your child might have a higher risk of developing it.

Regular eye exams, as frequent as once in 6 months to a year, are crucial for detecting myopia and other vision problems, especially since children might not always be able to communicate their visual difficulties effectively. If you notice any of the signs mentioned above or have concerns about your child's vision, it's advisable to schedule an eye examination with an optometrist. Early detection and management of myopia can help prevent its progression and potential complications.

If you need any assistance with this get in touch with us or book an appointment with our Optometrists today.