If you’re myopic, you may worry about your child developing nearsightedness, too. While it’s true that children of myopic parents have a higher risk, that doesn’t mean their vision is predetermined. Other factors play a role, and even if your child has already been diagnosed, myopia management can slow its progression and lower the risk of other eye conditions.
In this blog, we’ll explore how genetics influences myopia, what signs to watch for, and the strategies available to manage it effectively.
Is myopia genetic?
Yes, research has shown that myopia has a genetic component. The risk of developing myopia significantly increases in children with myopic parents. If one parent is nearsighted, the child’s risk doubles. If both parents are myopic, that risk increases about five times.¹
Genetics influences how the eye grows, particularly the length of the eyeball. In myopia, the eye grows too long, which causes light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it. This eye structure causes distant objects to appear blurry while close-up objects remain clear.
Early signs of myopia in children
While all children need regular eye exams, those with one or both myopic parents should be closely monitored for early signs of vision changes. Detecting myopia early provides more opportunities to slow its progression.
Watch for these common signs:
- Squinting to see the board at school or distant objects
- Sitting very close to the TV, tablet, or book
- Frequent eye rubbing or complaints of headaches
- Difficulty seeing distant objects clearly, like street signs or classroom presentations
- Avoiding activities that require clear distance vision, such as sports
If you notice any of these signs, scheduling a pediatric eye exam at Family Eyecare of Orange can help detect myopia early. It also allows our eye doctor to discuss options for myopia management in Orange.
How to prevent myopia
While you can’t control inherited traits, certain lifestyle choices can affect how myopia develops. Here’s how you can help protect your child’s vision:
- Encourage at least 2 hours of outdoor play each day.
- Limit recreational screen time and encourage regular breaks during near work.
- Ensure proper lighting when reading or doing homework.
- Schedule regular comprehensive eye exams for early detection.
- Follow your eye doctor’s recommendations for myopia management if necessary.
Options for myopia management
The purpose of myopia management isn’t just fewer prescription updates. It works to slow the elongation of the eye and lower the risk of serious conditions later in life, including glaucoma and retinal detachment.
Your child’s optometrist may recommend:
- Specialized contact lenses that help slow myopia progression
- Kids’ glasses designed to reduce eye strain
- Lifestyle adjustments to support healthy eye development
At Family Eyecare of Orange, we offer the Brilliant Futures™ Myopia Management Program, featuring MiSight® 1 day contact lenses for children ages 8–12. This FDA-approved treatment option has been shown to slow the progression of myopia while giving kids the freedom and confidence of wearing contacts.
Support clearer vision and confident learning
Genetics may increase your child’s risk for myopia, but it doesn’t have to dictate their vision in the future. With guidance from skilled eye doctors and proven myopia management options, you can help your child see clearly, focus confidently in school, and enjoy everyday activities.
Protect their eyes early—schedule an eye exam online today.
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