What Is Myopia? Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a vision condition that is becoming increasingly common among children and young adults. It often develops at an early age and tends to progress as children grow. At Eyes On Southern, we are committed to helping families in Royal Palm Beach, Florida, understand what myopia is, how it develops, and which treatment options are available.

What Is Myopia?

Myopia is a refractive error that makes it difficult to see distant objects clearly while close-up objects remain in focus. It occurs when the eye grows too long from front to back (axial length) or when the cornea is too curved. This causes light entering the eye to focus in front of the retina, instead of directly on it, resulting in blurry distance vision.

Common Causes of Myopia

The exact cause of myopia is not fully understood, but several factors are believed to contribute, including:

• Genetics: Children with one or both nearsighted parents are at a higher risk.

• Environmental Factors: Extended near work, such as reading or using digital devices, and limited time spent outdoors can increase myopia risk.

• Eye Growth Patterns: Rapid eye growth during childhood can affect how light focuses inside the eye, leading to myopia.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Myopia

Myopia often develops during childhood and may progress as a child grows. Common symptoms include:

• Blurry vision when looking at distant objects (e.g., the board at school or TV)

• Squinting to see clearly

• Frequent headaches

• Eye strain or fatigue

• Sitting close to screens or holding books very close

If your child exhibits any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule an eye exam as soon as possible.

The Importance of Regular Pediatric Eye Exams

Early detection is crucial in managing myopia and protecting your child’s vision. Comprehensive pediatric eye exams can identify myopia and other vision problems before they impact learning or daily life. At Eyes On Southern, we recommend routine eye exams for all children - even if they aren’t showing obvious symptoms. Early intervention can help slow myopia progression and support better outcomes.

Myopia Control Treatment Options

Advancements in eye care have made it possible to not just correct myopia, but also slow its progression in children. Some of the most effective myopia management treatments include:

• Atropine Eye Drops: Low-dose atropine eye drops are used to relax the eye’s focusing mechanism, which can slow the progression of myopia. They are safe, easy to use, and typically administered before bedtime.

• MiSight® 1 Day Contact Lenses: MiSight® 1 day contact lenses are FDA-approved specifically for myopia control in children. These daily disposable lenses are comfortable, convenient, and clinically proven to slow the progression of nearsightedness.

• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Ortho-K lenses are custom-fitted, overnight contact lenses that gently reshape the cornea while your child sleeps. This non-surgical approach provides clear daytime vision without glasses or contact lenses and helps control myopia progression.

Supporting Families in Royal Palm Beach, Florida, and Beyond

Eyes On Southern is committed to providing advanced, compassionate eye care for families in Royal Palm Beach and neighboring communities. Our experienced team takes the time to educate parents, answer questions, and create personalized myopia management plans that fit your child’s needs and lifestyle.

If you’re concerned about your child’s eyesight or want to explore myopia control options, schedule a pediatric eye exam at Eyes On Southern and take the first step toward safeguarding your child’s vision. Visit our office in Royal Palm Beach, Florida, or call (561) 270-5520 to book an appointment today.