What is Myopia? 

Myopia is also called short-sightedness where a person cannot see distant objects clearly because the eyeball becomes relatively longer.

What causes Myopia to increase in children?

Children are growing and their eyeballs grow too. As their eyeballs grow in length, their myopia increases. Increasing Myopia is associated with spending less time outdoors and more time doing near work (reading).

What are the long term eye problems associated with Myopia?

Long term eye problems may include glaucoma, retinal detachment, degeneration of the central part of the retina and early development of cataracts.

How should children with Myopia take care of their eyes?

They should wear their prescribed glasses, have good reading habits and spend more time outdoors.

Can increase in Myopia be controlled or slowed down? 

Studies have shown that Atropine eyedrops can help to reduce the progression of Myopia in children.

The common side effects of Atropine eyedrops include sensitivity to light, itchy eyes and difficulty with reading which can be corrected with reading glasses. Therefore children using Atropine eyedrops can carry on with normal activities but may need to wear tinted or reading glasses. Long term effects of using Atropine are still unknown. You should discuss with your doctor to see if the eyedrops are suitable for your children with myopia.

[NOTE: This FAQ contains general information about medical conditions and its treatment. The information is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor. If you have any medical problem, you should consult a doctor.]