Myopia on the Rise: Why More Kids Are Becoming Nearsighted
In recent years, myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is spreading rapidly among the youth.
Myopia causes distant vision to blur, although nearby things are still clear, is now a global public health issue.
This surge is alarming experts such as Dr. Ruchika Kedia, a renowned ophthalmologist in Thane. Knowing the contributing factors, potential effects, and prevention strategies is crucial for preventing widespread visual impairment.
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== What is Nearsightedness? ==
Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a refractive error that is due to an abnormal focusing of light in the eye.
This leads to difficulty seeing distant objects clearly, making activities like reading a whiteboard or recognizing faces from afar challenging.
Rates of myopia are rising steadily due to changes in how children spend time indoors and on screens.
== Why is Myopia Increasing Among Young People? ==
Several factors contribute to the upsurge of myopia in young individuals:
1. **Increased Screen Time**
Children today spend a lot of time on screens — phones, tablets, and computers.
This prolonged exposure leads to eye strain and may speed up the development of myopia.
2. **Reduced Outdoor Activities**
Being outside reduces the risk of nearsightedness.
However, limited outdoor time means their eyes don’t benefit from sunlight.
3. **Genetic Predisposition**
Nearsightedness often runs in families.
4. **Poor Visual Habits**
Bad visual practices can worsen vision over time.
== Complications Associated with Myopia ==
While lower levels of nearsightedness is typically treatable with corrective lenses, progressive myopia increases the chance of severe eye problems.
Possible complications include:
- Retinal detachment
- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
- Myopic macular degeneration
Booking an appointment with a Thane ophthalmologist can ensure timely intervention.
== How to Prevent and Manage Nearsightedness? ==
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1. **Regular Eye Check-ups**
Yearly check-ups are crucial for catching changes in eyesight.
2. **Encourage Outdoor Activities**
Outdoor time is vital for eye health.
3. **Follow the 20-20-20 Rule**
Use this technique to give eyes a break during screen time.
4. **Proper Lighting and Ergonomics**
Study areas should be well-lit and ergonomically arranged.
5. **Corrective Lenses and Advanced Treatments**
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 click here for Myopia? ==
Frequent eye rubbing, eye strain, or complaints of blurry vision are warning signs.
Getting help early on prevents long-term vision issues.
== Conclusion ==
The rise in childhood myopia is a serious issue worldwide.
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.
Protecting children’s vision today helps them see the world clearly tomorrow.
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