The Surge in Nearsightedness: What’s Fueling the Myopia Boom in Children
More recently, nearsightedness (myopia), is becoming increasingly common in children and teenagers.
This condition, where faraway objects look fuzzy while near ones stay sharp, is now a global public health issue.
Professionals in eye care, such as Dr. Ruchika Kedia in Thane, are raising awareness about the issue. It’s vital to understand what causes nearsightedness, what risks it brings, and how it can be prevented is crucial for protecting long-term eye health.
[Image: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/concerned-indian-professional-businessman-squinting-through-2438672983]
== What is Nearsightedness? ==
Nearsightedness—also called myopia— is a type of vision problem that is due to an abnormal focusing of light in the eye.
This leads to unclear far vision, which makes it hard to see things like blackboards or people across a room.
More people are being diagnosed with myopia due to modern lifestyle factors like digital device use and staying indoors.
== Why is Myopia Increasing Among Young People? ==
Several factors contribute to the rise of myopia in young individuals:
1. **Increased Screen Time**
Children today spend a lot of time on screens — phones, tablets, and computers.
Extended screen time can tire the eyes and promote nearsightedness.
2. **Reduced Outdoor Activities**
Exposure to natural light helps control the growth of the eyeball.
However, fewer outdoor hours mean more time straining their eyes indoors.
3. **Genetic Predisposition**
If parents have myopia, their children are more likely to develop it.
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 ensure timely intervention.
== How to Prevent and Manage Nearsightedness? ==
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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**
Avoid reading in poor lighting.
5. **Corrective Lenses and Advanced Treatments**
Depending on the condition, doctors may suggest special lenses or drops.
6. **Specialized more info Myopia Management Programs**
Tailored management keeps myopia from progressing.
== When to See a Doctor for Myopia? ==
Parents should notice if their child is having trouble seeing the board at school.
Seeing a specialist right away ensures the best treatment.
== Conclusion ==
Nearsightedness among kids is more common than ever before.
However, it's manageable with awareness and timely action.
Eye expert Dr. Ruchika Kedia stresses lifestyle changes to preserve vision.
Eye health today leads to better lives tomorrow.
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