Myopia is one of the most prevalent vision issues in children today. While glasses and contact lenses can correct blurry distance vision, the underlying condition can continue to progress without proper intervention. What many parents don’t realize is that untreated or rapidly progressing myopia doesn’t just make it harder for a child to see the board in class - it can also raise the risk of developing other, more serious eye conditions later in life.

 

What Is Myopia and Why Does It Progress?

Myopia occurs when the eyeball grows longer than normal or when the cornea becomes too curved. This causes light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it, resulting in blurred distance vision.

In children, the eye is still growing - meaning myopia can worsen year after year, sometimes quickly. Without early intervention, excessive eye growth can contribute to structural changes that increase future eye health risks.

 

Eye Conditions Linked to Myopia

While mild myopia carries minimal long-term risk, moderate to high myopia significantly increases the likelihood of several serious eye diseases. These conditions don’t happen immediately, but the foundations for them begin in childhood.

 

Retinal Detachment

As the eye elongates, the retina becomes thinner and more vulnerable. This makes individuals with high myopia more prone to retinal tears and detachments. A retinal detachment is a medical emergency, and early signs - such as sudden flashes, floaters, or a curtain-like shadow - should never be ignored.

 

Glaucoma

Children and adults with myopia have a higher risk of developing open-angle glaucoma later in life. The structural changes in the eye that accompany myopia can affect the optic nerve, making it more susceptible to damage from increased eye pressure.

 

Myopic Maculopathy

The macula is responsible for central vision, and high myopia can lead to degenerative changes in this delicate area. Myopic maculopathy can result in permanent vision loss and is one of the most serious complications associated with progressive myopia.

 

Early Cataracts

Myopia has also been linked to a higher likelihood of developing cataracts at a younger age. Cataracts cause cloudy vision and often require surgery when they begin to interfere with daily life.

 

Why Early Detection Matters

The earlier myopia is diagnosed, the better the chances of slowing progression and reducing associated risks. That’s why comprehensive pediatric eye exams in Franklin are so important for school-aged children. Even if your child seems to see well, underlying changes can go unnoticed - and progress quickly. Dr. Annedrea Morreale’s experience in pediatric vision care allows her to identify subtle signs of myopia early and recommend the most effective treatment options.

Today’s myopia management treatments go beyond standard glasses. These methods have been clinically proven to slow the rate of myopia progression, helping protect children from long-term complications.

 

Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam at Franklin Vision Care

Myopia is a condition that can influence lifelong eye health if it progresses unchecked. With early detection and modern myopia management in Franklin, TN, you can help safeguard your child’s vision for years to come. Under the care of Dr. Morreale, families can feel confident they’re taking proactive steps to ensure healthy eyesight now and into adulthood.

Schedule pediatric eye exam at Franklin Vision Care to learn more about personalized myopia management options. Visit our office in Franklin, Tennessee, or call (615) 488-9882 to book an appointment today.