Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is becoming increasingly common in children across the United States. At The Eye Center of Virginia, we are committed to helping families across Williamsburg and the surrounding areas take proactive steps to manage its progression. Our team provides advanced treatment options and ongoing support to protect your child’s vision and long-term eye health.

What Is Myopia?

Myopia is a refractive error that causes distant objects to appear blurry while close objects remain clear. It typically develops during childhood and can progress throughout the school years. This condition occurs when the eye grows too long or the cornea becomes too curved, preventing light from focusing properly on the retina.

Children with uncorrected myopia may struggle to see the whiteboard, follow along with lessons, or participate fully in classroom activities. These challenges can lead to frustration, reduced confidence, and declining performance in school. Managing myopia effectively ensures that vision problems do not interfere with your child’s ability to learn and thrive.

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms

Myopia often develops gradually, and children may not always be aware that their vision is changing. As a parent, it’s important to watch for signs such as:
 

• Squinting to see distant objects

• Holding books or devices very close to their face

• Complaints of blurry distance vision

• Frequent headaches or eye strain

• Difficulty seeing the board at school

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule an eye exam promptly.

Early Detection Is Key

Routine eye exams are crucial for early detection and monitoring of myopia. Even if your child isn’t showing signs of vision problems, annual pediatric eye exams allow our optometrists to track eye growth and identify subtle changes in vision. The earlier myopia is diagnosed, the more effective treatment can be in slowing its progression.

What Is Myopia Management and Why Is It Important?

Myopia management involves a range of treatments designed to slow the progression of myopia and reduce the risk of future vision-threatening conditions. Without intervention, high myopia can increase the risk of serious eye diseases later in life, including:
 

• Retinal detachment

• Glaucoma

• Cataracts

• Myopic maculopathy

By managing myopia early, we can help protect your child’s vision for years to come.

MiSight® 1 Day Contact Lenses

At The Eye Center of Virginia, we offer MiSight® 1 Day contact lenses; an FDA-approved treatment specifically designed to slow the progression of myopia in children ages 8 to 12. These daily disposable lenses are easy to use, safe, and effective. Clinical studies have shown that MiSight lenses can reduce myopia progression by up to 59%, making them a leading option for families seeking a proactive solution. Our team provides personalized fittings, training, and follow-up care to ensure your child feels confident and comfortable wearing their lenses.

Take the First Step Toward Protecting Your Child’s Vision

Myopia is a condition that requires ongoing care and attention. At The Eye Center of Virginia, we’re here to guide you through every step of the myopia management journey. From early diagnosis to advanced treatment options like MiSight® 1 Day lenses, we offer comprehensive support tailored to your child’s needs.

Schedule a pediatric eye exam to learn more about how we can help manage your child’s myopia and preserve their vision for the future. Visit our office in Williamsburg, Virginia, or call (757) 919-3500 to book an appointment today.