If your child needs a stronger glasses prescription every year, you’re not alone. Nearsightedness, also called myopia, is becoming more common in children, and it’s not just an inconvenience. Left unmanaged, it can increase the risk of serious eye diseases later in life.
At VisionQuest Eyecare, we see parents every week who are concerned about their child’s changing vision. Many assume myopia is simply “fixed” by updating glasses or contacts. But there’s more to the story, and early action can make all the difference.
What Is Myopia?
Myopia happens when the eyeball grows too long from front to back, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This makes distant objects look blurry while close-up vision stays clear.
Myopia often starts in childhood and can progress rapidly during school years, especially during growth spurts. It usually stabilizes in late teens or early adulthood, but the eye changes that happen during childhood can have long-term consequences.
Why Myopia Gets Worse With Age
Children’s eyes grow as they grow. When the eyeball lengthens too quickly, myopia progresses. Genetics play a role, but so do environmental factors; like spending more time indoors, increased screen time, and less time outdoors.
Each time your child’s prescription increases, it means their eye has elongated further. Even small changes can raise the risk for future eye health problems.
The Risks of Untreated Myopia
This isn’t just about stronger glasses. Higher levels of myopia increase the likelihood of developing:
- Retinal detachment — a sight-threatening emergency
- Glaucoma — damage to the optic nerve that can lead to vision loss
- Cataracts — clouding of the eye’s lens at an earlier age
- Myopic macular degeneration — damage to the central retina that can cause permanent vision loss
One study published in the Journal of Optometry and Vision Science found that just a 1 diopter increase in a child’s prescription raised the risk of myopic macular degeneration by 67%. The same research showed that when myopia management was provided, that risk dropped by 40%.
Can Myopia Progression Be Slowed?
Yes, and the earlier you start, the better the results.
At VisionQuest Eyecare, we’re proud to be the only practice in Indiana partnered with Treehouse Eyes, the national leader in myopia management for children. This gives families access to the most advanced, non-invasive treatments proven to slow or even halt myopia progression.
Our customized treatment plans may include:
- Specialized contact lenses designed for myopia control
- Prescription eye drops that help slow eye growth
- Lifestyle recommendations to reduce risk factors
Why Families Trust VisionQuest Eyecare
Parents choose VisionQuest because we combine cutting-edge technology with personalized care in a family-friendly setting. Our pediatric eye care team takes the time to explain your child’s unique vision needs and create a plan that fits your schedule and lifestyle.
With convenient hours and two locations in Greenwood and Fishers, it’s easy to get the care your child needs without disrupting your routine.
Your child only gets one pair of eyes. Let’s protect them together.
Schedule Your Child’s Myopia Consultation Today
Dr. Chris Browning is a Greenwood native, who has been serving the community through glaucoma care and myopia management. He studied at Indiana University Bloomington and the Indiana University School of Optometry. As he has severe nearsightedness himself, Dr. Browning is passionate about helping others to achieve excellent vision.