Can Prolonged Screen Time Contribute to the Worsening of Myopia?

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a common refractive error where distant objects appear blurry while close-up vision remains clear. This condition occurs when the eye grows too long from front to back, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. Myopia often begins in childhood and tends to progress over time, particularly during school-age years and adolescence.
 

How Prolonged Screen Time Can Worsen Myopia

In today’s digital age, children and teens are spending more time on screens than ever before, whether for school, entertainment, or social interaction. Extended use of digital devices such as tablets, smartphones, and computers can contribute to visual strain and has been linked to the progression of myopia. When a child focuses on screens for prolonged periods, especially without adequate breaks or outdoor activity, it can increase the risk of their myopia worsening. Research suggests that a lack of time spent outdoors also plays a significant role in the progression of myopia.
 

The Importance of Regular Pediatric Eye Exams

Early detection is critical when it comes to managing myopia. Pediatric eye exams can help identify vision changes before they impact a child’s learning, sports performance, or quality of life. At Eagleville Eye Clinic, we recommend scheduling comprehensive eye exams regularly to monitor eye health and detect early signs of myopia. Catching myopia in its early stages allows us to implement effective strategies to slow its progression.
 

What Is Myopia Management and Why Is It Important?

Myopia management is a proactive approach that goes beyond simply prescribing stronger glasses each year. It involves specialized treatments designed to slow the progression of nearsightedness in children. These may include:

• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses

• Multifocal contact lenses

• Low-dose atropine eye drops
   

Managing myopia is important because high levels of myopia in later life can increase the risk of serious eye conditions like retinal detachment, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Slowing myopia progression during childhood can help protect long-term vision health.
 

A Personalized Approach at Eagleville Eye Clinic

Prolonged screen time can contribute to the worsening of myopia, but with early detection and the right management plan, you can help protect your child’s eyesight. At Eagleville Eye Clinic, we understand that every child’s vision needs are unique. We take a personalized approach to myopia management by performing detailed assessments and customizing a treatment plan tailored to each patient’s lifestyle, age, and severity of myopia.

If you are concerned about your child’s nearsightedness, schedule an eye exam with Eagleville Eye Clinic to explore myopia management treatments. Visit our office in Eagleville, Tennessee, or call (615) 274-2102 to book your appointment today.