While parents are busy getting their children back to school, it is important to recognize that healthy eyes are essential for learning.
Myopia, or nearsightedness, is on the rise around the world. Children who are nearsighted can see well close up, but they have difficulty seeing the board in the front of the classroom. They may not complain at all, but they tend to squint or try blinking or rubbing their eyes to see far.
Most myopia can be corrected with prescription glasses or contact lenses. Studies show excessive near activities, including phone and tablet screens, are linked to worsening of myopia. An hour of outdoor activities daily help to slow the progression of myopia.
Sometimes children do not realize their vision has decreased. They may show subtle signs of visual difficulty. They may have a short attention span and lose interest in activities that require visual concentration. They may lose their place in reading. They may turn their heads to the side to look at something in front of them. If parents or caregivers observe any of these behaviors, the child needs to have an eye examination promptly.
Misaligned eyes can present at birth or during early childhood. The condition does usually not get better as the child grows older. The eye that is not straight can develop decreased vision. An ophthalmologist can diagnose the cause of the misalignment and provides appropriate treatment of eye alignment and vision.
Screen use is common in children and many start at a very young age. This can lead to myopia and digital eye strain. To minimize these problems, the children should follow the 20-20-20 rule. They should close their eyes or look at objects at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds after 20 minutes of screen time.
Blue light glasses do not protect the eyes from sleep problems from blue light exposure. To avoid trouble falling asleep at night, it is best to put away the screens late in the evening.
Eye injuries are the most common cause of blindness in children and most of them are preventable. Proper eye protection is necessary for sports, workshops or laboratories. Sunglasses or regular corrective glasses do not offer sufficient protection.
Good vision is necessary for a child’s success in school and general well being. Regular eye examination allows early diagnosis and treatment of eye problems.
Dr. Frederick Ho, the medical director of Atlantic Eye MD and Atlantic Surgery and Laser Center, is a board certified ophthalmologist. Atlantic Eye MD is located at 8040 N. Wickham Road in Melbourne. To make an appointment please call 321-757-7272. To learn more visit atlanticeyemd.com.
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This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Dr. Frederick Ho: Good vision is key for a child’s success in school
