Childhood Myopia (Nearsightedness)
Myopia means your child sees clearly up close but far away objects look blurry. It’s one of the most common vision conditions in children, and at Ortho K Specialty, it’s the only condition we treat, giving every family focused, specialized care.
Request a Consultation or call (646) 798-7140.
What Causes Childhood Myopia?
Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long from front to back, a process called axial elongation, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. Genetics, increased near-work, and reduced outdoor time have all been linked to rising myopia rates in children. Learn more about the broader trend on our Myopia Epidemic page.
Signs Your Child May Be Nearsighted
- Squinting to see the board at school or the TV at home
- Sitting close to screens or holding books very close
- Frequent headaches or eye strain
- A rapidly changing glasses prescription year over year
Not sure if your child is at risk? Take our myopia risk quiz.
How We Treat Childhood Myopia
At Ortho K Specialty, we don’t just correct the symptoms of myopia with stronger lenses each year, we actively work to slow its progression using overnight ortho-k lenses, atropine therapy, or soft myopia-control contact lenses, depending on your child’s needs. Every plan starts with a comprehensive eye exam and axial length measurement.
Childhood Myopia FAQs
At what age does myopia usually appear in children?
Myopia often first appears between ages 6 and 14, though it can develop earlier or later depending on the child.
Can childhood myopia be cured?
Myopia cannot be cured, but its progression can often be slowed with treatments like ortho-k, atropine, or myopia-control lenses.
Is myopia hereditary?
Yes, children with one or both nearsighted parents have a higher likelihood of developing myopia themselves.
What happens if childhood myopia isn’t treated?
Untreated, progressive myopia can increase the long-term risk of serious eye conditions such as retinal detachment and myopic macular degeneration.
How is myopia diagnosed?
A comprehensive eye exam, including a refraction test and axial length measurement, confirms a myopia diagnosis and its severity.