Lifestyle Adjustments That Can Help Prevent My Myopia from Worsening

Myopia is becoming increasingly common, especially in children and young adults. But while it may seem like just an inconvenience, unchecked myopia can increase the risk of serious eye conditions later in life. Fortunately, some simple lifestyle changes can help slow the progression of myopia and protect long-term vision.

Understanding Myopia

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a vision condition that makes distant objects appear blurry while close-up objects remain clear. It occurs when the eye grows too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it.

Why Is It Important to Slow Myopia Progression?

While glasses or contact lenses can correct blurry vision, they don’t address the underlying issue - the elongation of the eyeball. Higher levels of myopia can significantly increase the risk of developing sight-threatening conditions, such as:

• Retinal detachment

• Glaucoma

• Myopic macular degeneration

• Cataracts

Slowing myopia progression in childhood can help reduce these long-term risks.

Limit Screen Time

Digital devices are a part of daily life, but extended near work (like reading, tablet use, or computer work) has been linked to myopia progression. Encourage regular breaks using the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Try to set daily limits on recreational screen time, especially for younger children.

Spend More Time Outdoors

Numerous studies show that spending more time outdoors, ideally at least 1 to 2 hours per day, can help slow myopia progression. Natural sunlight and focusing on objects at varying distances give the eyes a much-needed break from constant close-up work.

Schedule Regular Pediatric Eye Exams

Children often don’t notice vision changes, so routine eye exams are essential for catching myopia early and monitoring its progression. Your doctor can recommend the best exam schedule based on your child’s age and risk factors.

When to Consider Myopia Management Treatment

Lifestyle changes can make a difference, but some children may still need additional support to slow myopia. Myopia management treatments, such as specially designed contact lenses, atropine eye drops, or orthokeratology (overnight lenses), can help control progression. If your child’s prescription is rapidly increasing or you are concerned about long term eye health, talk to your eye doctor about whether myopia management is appropriate.

Protect Your Child’s Vision at Radiant Eye Care

While myopia is increasingly common, there are proactive steps you can take to help protect your child’s (or your own) vision for the future. By making thoughtful lifestyle adjustments and partnering with your eye care professional, you can help slow myopia progression and reduce the risk of serious eye health complications.

Ready to take control of your family’s eye health? Schedule a pediatric eye exam at Radiant Eye Care to explore myopia management treatment options. Visit our office in Elgin, Illinois, or call (847) 874-2020 to book an appointment today.