The Importance of Early Myopia Detection: How Parents Can Spot the Signs

As screen time increases and outdoor activities decrease, more children are being diagnosed with myopia than ever before. At Old Saratoga Eyecare, we believe early detection is key to preserving your child’s long-term eye health. Understanding what myopia is, recognizing the signs early on, and taking proactive steps toward management can make all the difference in your child’s vision and quality of life.
 

What Is Myopia?

Myopia is a common vision condition where distant objects appear blurry while close-up vision remains clear. This happens when the eyeball grows too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. Myopia often develops in childhood and can progress rapidly if left unmanaged.

 

The Role of Pediatric Eye Exams in Early Detection

One of the most effective ways to detect myopia early is through regular comprehensive eye exams. The American Optometric Association recommends that children have their first eye exam at 6 to 12 months old, another at age 3, and then before starting school. From there, annual eye exams can help track any vision changes as your child grows.

Unlike school vision screenings, a full pediatric eye exam evaluates all aspects of vision and eye health. These exams can catch subtle signs of myopia that may not be obvious to parents or teachers. Early detection allows us to intervene before the condition worsens, helping to slow its progression and reduce the risk of complications later in life.

Common Signs of Myopia in Children

Because children often don’t realize they’re seeing the world differently, it’s important for parents to be on the lookout for signs such as:

•          Squinting to see distant objects like the TV or whiteboard

•          Sitting too close to screens or holding books very near

•          Complaints of headaches or eye strain

•          Rubbing eyes frequently

•          Struggling in school, especially when reading from a distance

•          Poor hand-eye coordination in sports or outdoor play

If you notice any of these signs, schedule an eye exam as soon as possible.

 

The Importance of Myopia Management

Early intervention does more than correct blurry vision—it can help slow the progression of myopia, which is critical for protecting long-term eye health. High levels of myopia are linked to an increased risk of serious eye conditions later in life, including retinal detachment, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.

We offer advanced myopia management options such as Orthokeratology (Ortho-K). Ortho-K lenses are specially designed contact lenses worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea. This non-surgical solution not only provides clear daytime vision without glasses or contacts but also helps slow the elongation of the eye—effectively managing myopia progression.

 

Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam at Old Saratoga Eyecare Today

Myopia is becoming more common, but with early detection and effective management, its impact can be significantly reduced. As a parent, staying alert to the signs and prioritizing routine eye care can help ensure your child’s vision stays strong and healthy for years to come.

If you’re child is showing signs of myopia, schedule a pediatric eye exam at Old Saratoga Eyecare to take the next step toward protecting your their vision. Visit our office in Greenwich, New York, or call (518) 692-2040 to book an appointment today.