As children grow and their vision develops, it’s important for parents to keep an eye out for potential vision problems. One of the most common issues affecting children today is nearsightedness, also known as myopia. Understanding what it is and how to recognize the signs early can make a significant difference in your child’s long-term visual health.
 

What Is Nearsightedness?

Nearsightedness, or myopia, is a refractive error where distant objects appear blurry while close objects remain clear. It occurs when the eye grows too long or the cornea curves too steeply, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it.

Myopia typically begins in childhood and can progress as a child grows. Without proper care, it can increase the risk of more serious eye conditions later in life, such as retinal detachment or glaucoma.
 

Common Signs and Symptoms of Nearsightedness in Children

Children don’t always realize that their vision is blurry, which makes parental observation essential. Here are some common signs that may indicate nearsightedness:

• Squinting frequently to see distant objects clearly

• Sitting too close to the TV or holding books and devices very near their face

• Complaints of headaches or eye strain after reading or schoolwork

• Difficulty seeing the board at school or recognizing faces from a distance

• Excessive blinking or rubbing of the eyes

• Decline in school performance due to vision-related struggles

If you notice any of these signs, scheduling a comprehensive eye exam with our local Pilot Point optometrist is a critical next step.
 

The Importance of Pediatric Eye Exams

Regular pediatric eye exams in Pilot Point play an essential role in your child’s overall health and academic success. Early detection allows your optometrist to identify and monitor nearsightedness before it worsens. Through advanced testing and diagnostic tools, your eye doctor can track changes in your child’s vision and create a personalized treatment plan to help slow its progression. Routine exams not only correct existing vision problems but also help detect other potential eye conditions that could impact your child’s development and learning.
 

Myopia Management in Pilot Point, Texas

At Pilot Point Family Eye Care, we offer comprehensive myopia management to help children maintain clearer vision and prevent rapid progression.

Two effective treatment options include:

• MiSight® 1 day contact lenses: Specially designed soft lenses that have been FDA-approved to slow the progression of myopia in children. They are easy to use, comfortable, and suitable for daily wear.

• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Custom-fitted overnight lenses that gently reshape the cornea while your child sleeps. In the morning, the lenses are removed, allowing for clear vision throughout the day - without glasses or daytime contacts.

These methods help manage nearsightedness safely and effectively, giving your child the visual clarity and confidence they need to thrive.
 

Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam Today

Recognizing the signs of nearsightedness early can make a significant difference in your child’s vision and quality of life. With regular pediatric eye exams and advanced myopia management options, you can help protect your child’s eyesight for years to come.

Contact Pilot Point Family Eye Care to schedule a pediatric eye exam to learn more about myopia management treatment options. Visit our office in Pilot Point, Texas, or call (940) 248-9868 to book an appointment today.