September marks Myopia Action Month, and there’s no better time to get informed about short-sightedness and its impact on your child’s vision. Like many parents, you’ve probably heard the term “myopia” but may not entirely understand what it means or how it affects your child. Read on to learn more about this condition, including what causes short-sightedness and the signs and symptoms to be aware of.

What is Myopia, and What Causes it?

Myopia, often referred to as short-sightedness, is a common eye condition affecting millions of people worldwide. It happens when the eye grows too long, making things in the distance look blurry, even though close-up objects remain clear. Kids usually develop short-sightedness between the ages of 6 and 13. But what causes short-sightedness? It’s often due to both genetic and environmental reasons. If you’re both short-sighted, there’s a higher chance your child might need glasses too. Plus, spending a lot of time on activities like reading or playing on screens and not enough time playing outside can also contribute to the development of myopia.

Signs and Symptoms of Short-Sightedness in Children

As a parent, it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of short-sightedness that your child may exhibit. Early detection can help ensure they receive the appropriate care. Here are some common indicators to watch for:

• Difficulty reading words from a distance.
• Sitting close to the TV.
• Holding books or devices close to the face.
• Getting frequent headaches.
• Rubbing eyes a lot.

The importance of managing myopia

Short-sightedness is on the rise and is predicted to impact half of the world’s population by 2050. It’s crucial to catch and manage it early with regular eye examinations. If not addressed, myopia can worsen and lead to high myopia, which might increase your child’s chances of developing eye issues in the future. That’s where myopia management comes in. Parents often ask us the question, ‘Can contact lenses slow down myopia?’ and the answer is yes.

At Bagot Opticians, we offer Nocturnal™ orthokeratology overnight contact lenses, which work their magic while your child sleeps. These innovative lenses gently reshape the cornea,  slowing the progression of myopia by up to 60%. Imagine your child waking up with clear vision without needing glasses or daytime contacts, making them a great option for active, energetic kids. By choosing Nocturnal™ Ortho-K lenses, you’re taking a proactive step in managing your child’s myopia and helping to ensure a bright future.

Take the Next Step for Your Child’s Vision

If you have any concerns about your child’s vision or have noticed signs of short-sightedness, don’t wait to take action.

Book an eye examination for your child at one of our four Bagot Opticians practices. Our experienced team is here to help you learn more about the condition and explore the benefits of Ortho-K lenses, an effective option for managing myopia.