If you’ve recently been told that your child has myopia (nearsightedness), you may be wondering if their vision will continue to worsen. Myopia is a common condition where distant objects appear blurry while close-up vision remains clear. Many parents worry about its progression, especially if they themselves needed glasses at a young age. Fortunately, at Optical Zone, we specialize in myopia management—a service that sets us apart from competitors in the Frisco, Plano, Allen, and McKinney areas.
Dr. Akshet Joshi, an experienced optometrist and owner of Optical Zone, shares expert insights on why myopia progresses and what parents can do to help protect their child’s vision.
Why Does Myopia Get Worse Over Time?
In many cases, myopia does tend to worsen as children grow. Several factors contribute to this progression, including:
Genetics Play a Role
If one or both parents have myopia, their child is more likely to develop it as well. Children often follow the same pattern of progression as their parents. If you needed glasses at a young age, your child may experience a similar journey.
Screen Time Can Accelerate Progression
One of the biggest modern contributors to worsening myopia is excessive screen time. Digital devices like tablets, smartphones, and computers put significant strain on young eyes, especially when used for long periods. Research suggests that prolonged near work, such as reading or screen use, may encourage the eyes to become more nearsighted over time.
To help reduce strain, limit screen time outside of schoolwork to no more than two hours per day. Encourage regular breaks using the 20-20-20 rule—every 20 minutes, have your child look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
Outdoor Time Helps Slow Myopia Progression
Spending time outdoors is one of the most effective ways to slow the worsening of myopia. Studies suggest that exposure to natural sunlight and vitamin D play a key role in healthy eye development. Kids who spend more time outside tend to have slower myopia progression compared to those who stay indoors.
Encourage at least two hours of outdoor activity daily. Your child doesn’t need to be playing a sport—simply being outside in natural light is beneficial.
How Optical Zone Stands Out in Myopia Management
Unlike many other practices in the area, Optical Zone offers specialized myopia management programs that help slow the progression of nearsightedness. Dr. Joshi tailors treatments to each child's specific needs, ensuring they receive the best care possible.
We utilize advanced technology and techniques, including:
- Customized myopia control lenses, such as special contact lenses and eyeglasses designed to reduce myopia progression.
- Corneal analyzers that use high-tech imaging to assess eye health and track changes over time.
- Lifestyle and environmental guidance with personalized recommendations on screen time, outdoor activity, and overall eye care.
By combining preventative education with advanced technology, we provide long-term vision solutions for children at risk of worsening myopia.
While myopia can worsen over time, there are steps you can take to help slow its progression. Managing screen time and increasing outdoor activities are key to supporting your child’s long-term eye health.
Our dedicated team focuses on preventative eye care and customized treatment plans to help your child maintain clear vision.
Support Your Child’s Vision at Optical Zone, and learn more about how we can help manage your child’s myopia.
Optical Zone – Your trusted partner in lifelong eye health.