Myopia (Short-Sightedness)
A common vision problem where distant objects look blurry but close objects are clear. It's increasing among children.
Quick Summary
Blurry distance vision, squinting, eye strain, headaches and difficulty seeing the board at school.
Glasses or contact lenses; laser surgery for adults; measures to slow progression in children.
Family history, lots of close-up work and screen time, and little time outdoors.
Overview
In myopia, the eye is slightly too long, so light focuses in front of the retina.
Spending time outdoors and limiting screen time may help slow myopia in children. Regular eye checks matter.
Symptoms
Blurry distance vision
Difficulty reading signs or the board.
Squinting
To see clearly.
Headaches
From eye strain.
Worsening in childhood
Often progresses during school years.
Causes & Risk Factors
Biological Causes
The eyeball grows too long or the cornea is too curved.
Key Risk Factors
- Family history Short-sighted parents.
- Close work Reading and screens for long hours.
- Little outdoor time Less daylight exposure.
Management & Treatment
01. Glasses or lenses
Correct vision.
02. Myopia control
Special lenses or eye drops for some children.
03. Laser surgery
For suitable adults.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my child's eyes get worse?
Do glasses make eyes weaker?
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Refractive Errors | Astigmatism | Myopia(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- Short-sightedness (myopia)(opens in a new tab) · NHS