Myopia on the Rise: What’s Fueling the Myopia Boom in Children
In recent years, myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is spreading rapidly among the youth.
Myopia results in poor distance vision but clear near vision, is spreading swiftly around the world.
This surge is alarming experts such as Dr. Ruchika Kedia, a renowned ophthalmologist in Thane. It’s vital to understand what causes nearsightedness, what risks it brings, and how it can be prevented is crucial for preserving children’s eyesight for the future.
[Image: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/concerned-indian-professional-businessman-squinting-through-2438672983]
== What is Nearsightedness? ==
Nearsightedness, or myopia, is a refractive error that happens when the eye is too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus before reaching the retina.
This leads to difficulty seeing distant objects clearly, hindering classroom learning or outdoor activities.
More people are being diagnosed with myopia due to changes in how children spend time indoors and on screens.
== Why is Myopia Increasing Among Young People? ==
Several factors contribute to the increase of myopia in children and adolescents:
1. **Increased Screen Time**
Young people are glued to screens for hours each day.
Screen time overload stresses the eyes and is linked to faster myopia progression.
2. **Reduced Outdoor Activities**
Exposure to natural light helps control the growth of the eyeball.
However, many kids now stay indoors most of the day, increasing myopia risk.
3. **Genetic Predisposition**
Kids with nearsighted parents are at a higher risk.
4. **Poor Visual Habits**
Bad visual practices can worsen vision over time.
== Complications Associated with Myopia ==
While basic myopia can be controlled with prescriptions, high myopia poses serious risks.
Possible complications include:
- Retinal detachment
- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
- Myopic macular degeneration
Getting expert help from Dr. Ruchika Kedia can protect long-term eye health.
== How to Prevent and Manage Nearsightedness? ==
[Image: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/young-female-ophthalmologist-doing-regular-eye-1007067523]
1. **Regular Eye Check-ups**
Eye tests every year allow for early intervention.
2. **Encourage Outdoor Activities**
Outdoor time is vital for eye health.
3. **Follow the 20-20-20 Rule**
Every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
4. **Proper Lighting and Ergonomics**
Maintain good posture and lighting while reading.
5. **Corrective Lenses and Advanced Treatments** website
New therapies help slow myopia in kids.
6. **Specialized Myopia Management Programs**
Customized care plans from top doctors ensure better outcomes.
== When to See a Doctor for Myopia? ==
Difficulty seeing far-away things or frequent complaints may indicate a problem.
Getting help early on prevents long-term vision issues.
== Conclusion ==
Nearsightedness among kids is more common than ever before.
But with proactive steps, like eye checkups, more time outdoors, and expert guidance, it can be managed.
Dr. Kedia highlights how simple habits can prevent vision deterioration.
Eye health today leads to better lives tomorrow.
[Map Embed]