The Link Between Screen Time and Myopia in Kids

In today’s digital world, children are spending more time than ever in front of screens—whether for school, entertainment, or social interaction. While technology brings many benefits, it can also pose challenges for eye health, particularly increasing the risk of myopia in kids.

What is Myopia?

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a common eye condition where distant objects appear blurry, while close objects are seen clearly. This occurs when the eyeball grows too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of on it. Myopia often develops during childhood and progresses as kids grow.

How Screen Time Impacts Myopia

Prolonged screen time can exacerbate myopia in several ways, starting with the impact of prolonged near work. Spending extended periods focusing on close-up tasks, such as using tablets, computers, or smartphones, puts significant strain on the eyes. This strain can lead to the elongation of the eyeball, which is a key factor in the development and progression of myopia.

Another contributing factor is reduced outdoor time. Studies suggest that exposure to natural light and engaging in outdoor activities can help slow the progression of myopia. However, increased screen time often replaces outdoor play, depriving children of this important protective factor for their vision.

Finally, digital eye strain can further impact overall eye health. Staring at screens for long durations without regular breaks can cause symptoms like blurred vision, headaches, and dry eyes. These symptoms not only affect daily comfort but may also contribute to the worsening of myopia in children.

Strategies to Reduce Screen-Related Myopia Risk

While completely eliminating screen time may not be feasible, updated guidelines suggest a more holistic approach to managing and reducing the risk of myopia progression:
 

•        Take Regular, Structured Breaks from Close-Up Work:
Instead of following the traditional 20-20-20 rule, encourage your child to take a break every 30–45 minutes when using screens or reading. During these breaks, have them look at something in the distance or engage in a different activity to relax their eye muscles.
 

•        Increase Outdoor Time:
Aim for at least 90–120 minutes of outdoor activities each day. Studies show that regular exposure to natural light and opportunities to look into the distance can help slow myopia progression.
 

·       Set Age-Appropriate Screen Time Limits:
While screens are part of modern life, establish reasonable limits based on your child’s age. Balance digital activities with other pursuits to reduce continuous near-focus demands on their eyes.
 

·       Optimize the Viewing Environment:
Ensure your child maintains a proper distance from screens, promote good posture, and adjust lighting to reduce glare. Combined with regular breaks and increased outdoor play, these steps create a healthier visual environment.

Why Regular Pediatric Eye Exams Are Essential

Early detection is key to managing myopia and preserving your child’s vision. Pediatric eye exams can:
 

•          Monitor the progression of myopia

•          Detect any signs of strain or issues caused by screen use

•          Provide tailored recommendations to address your child’s specific needs

At Local Eyes Optometry, we recommend annual comprehensive eye exams for children to ensure their eyes are healthy and developing properly.

The Role of Myopia Management

If your child has been diagnosed with myopia, there are several effective treatment options available to help slow its progression. One such option is orthokeratology (Ortho-K), which involves wearing specialized contact lenses overnight. These lenses temporarily reshape the cornea, allowing for clear vision during the day while also helping to slow the progression of myopia over time.

Another effective treatment is the use of atropine eye drops. These low-dose drops are prescribed to relax the eye's focusing mechanism, which can reduce the rate at which myopia worsens. This treatment is often a convenient and non-invasive way to manage myopia progression in children.

Multifocal contact lenses are another valuable option. These lenses not only correct vision but also alter the way light enters the eye, which can slow the elongation of the eyeball—a key factor in the progression of myopia. By using one or a combination of these treatments, you can help protect your child’s vision and reduce the long-term impact of myopia.

Protecting Your Child’s Vision for the Future

With the right strategies and proactive care, you can help protect your child’s eyes from the potential effects of excessive screen time and manage myopia effectively. At Local Eyes Optometry, we provide comprehensive care, including myopia management options tailored to your child’s unique needs.

Protect your child’s eyesight and manage myopia effectively with personalized care and advanced treatments at Local Eyes Optometry. Contact our office in New Braunfels, Texas, by calling our optometrist at (830) 627-9272 to schedule an eye exam today.