Eye problems are increasing rapidly in children. Eye problems like blurred vision at an early age, and feeling the need to wear glasses have now become quite common. Health experts say that many reasons can be responsible for these eye problems. From lack of nutrition to increasing screen time for children, serious problems like myopia are increasing.
Usually, when it comes to weak eyesight and low vision, it is considered a problem that occurs with aging. However, statistics show that these problems are now increasing rapidly in children.
Eye specialists say that a large number of children under the age of 10 are being diagnosed with myopia or nearsightedness. In this, there is difficulty in seeing distant objects, for which there may be a need to wear glasses.
Increasing eye problems in children
Studies conducted to know about the increasing eye problems in children show that this problem often starts between the ages of 6 to 14 years. If this problem is not taken care of in time, then in serious situations there can be a risk of problems like myopic maculopathy, retinal detachment, glaucoma, and cataracts. Statistics show that about 9% of school-age children and 30% of adolescents may have myopia.
In serious situations or if it is not treated, there is also a risk of losing eyesight.
The risk is increasing due to screen time
Screen time, that is, children spending more time on computer, mobile or TV screens, is considered to be the main reason for this problem. In a study published in 'The Lancet Digital Health Journal' regarding the increasing risk of myopia, researchers said that screen time has increased the risk of myopia in children and youth significantly compared to before. If preventive measures are not taken in time, then most people will suffer from this problem in the coming years.
Spending too much time on the screen of a smart device increases the risk of myopia by 30 percent. Along with this, due to excessive use of computers, this risk has increased to about 80 percent.
What is the problem of myopia?
According to ophthalmologists, myopia (nearsightedness) is a problem in which the patient can see objects near him clearly, but distant objects appear blurred. In this, the shape of the eye changes. Generally, such a problem can occur due to the cornea, the protective outer layer of the eye, becoming larger. In such a situation, the light entering the eye is not able to focus properly.
What to do to prevent myopia?
Experts from the American Academy of Ophthalmology say that the risk of myopia can be reduced by taking care of some things in the lifestyle.
Make sure that your child spends more time playing outside than on the screen. Limit screen time on computers or other digital devices. It is also important to keep children's diets nutritious. Including foods containing beta carotene along with vitamins A and E in the diet can help reduce eye problems and maintain better vision.
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