Myopia in Children: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment in Turkey

Pediatric Eye Diseases

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Myopia is a refractive error that causes distant objects to appear blurry. In children, myopia occurs when the front-back length of the eye is longer than normal or when the cornea or lens is overly refractive. This causes light to focus in front of the retina and distant objects to be seen poorly. Myopia in children can affect academic performance and quality of life, especially during school age. Early diagnosis and treatment are of great importance in supporting the child's visual development.

Causes of Myopia in Children

Genetic Factors:

Having a family history of myopia or other refractive errors.

Structural Features of the Eye:

The front-back length of the eye is longer than normal.

The cornea or lens is too refractive.

Environmental Factors:

Long-term close-range activities (reading, screen use).

Insufficient outdoor activities and lack of natural light.

Symptoms of Myopia in Children

Difficulty in Seeing Far Away:Cannot see boards or distant objects clearly inability to see.

Squinting: The tendency to squint your eyes to see clearly.

Eye Strain: Occurs after reading or looking at a screen for a long time.

Headache: Occurs especially as a result of straining the eyes.

Light Sensitivity: Being disturbed by bright lights.

Diagnosis of Myopia in Children

Eye Examination: A detailed examination performed by an eye doctor.

Refraction Test: The child's visual acuity and refractive error are measured.

Eye Pressure Measurement: In cases where myopia is high, eye pressure is controlled

Treatment of Myopia in Children

Using Glasses:

Concave glasses to correct myopia.

Colored or patterned frames may encourage use for children.

Contact Lenses:

An alternative for children with high myopia.

Can be preferred in children who do not want to use glasses.

Orthokeratology (Night Lenses):

Temporary correction of the corneal shape is achieved with special lenses worn at night.

Provides clear vision during the day without using glasses or lenses.

Atropine Drops:

Low-dose atropine drops can slow the progression of myopia.

Laser Eye Surgery:

Usually performed on individuals 18 years of age and older.

Myopia can be permanently corrected with procedures such as LASIK or PRK.

Preventing Myopia in Children

Regular Eye Exams:It is recommended that children see an eye doctor once a year.

Outdoor Activity:It is important to spend at least 1-2 hours outdoors per day.

Limit Screen Use:20-20-20 rule: 20 seconds every 20 minutes

Good Lighting:Providing adequate lighting in reading and working areas.

Early diagnosis and treatment of myopia protects the child’s vision and improves academic success and quality of life.

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