When We See a Young Patient With Rapid Vision Changes - This Is What We Recommend

As children grow, their eyes are constantly changing. While gradual changes in vision are normal, some young patients experience rapid vision changes that can be concerning for both parents and doctors. At Riverdell Vision, we often see this in the form of myopia, or nearsightedness, which is becoming increasingly common in children.

What Causes Rapid Vision Changes?

The most common cause of rapid vision changes in children is progressive myopia. Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This leads to blurry distance vision.

• Genetics: If one or both parents are nearsighted, their child is more likely to develop myopia.

• Environment: Increased screen time, reduced outdoor activity, and more near work (like reading and device use) contribute to faster progression.

Why We Recommend Myopia Control Treatments

Uncontrolled myopia doesn’t just mean stronger glasses over time. High levels of myopia can increase the risk of serious eye conditions later in life, such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. That’s why we recommend proactive myopia control treatments.

These options may include:

• Specialty contact lenses (like orthokeratology or multifocal lenses)

• Prescription eye drops (low-dose atropine)

• Lifestyle changes (more time outdoors, taking breaks from screens)

Benefits of Early Intervention

The earlier myopia management begins, the better the results. When we intervene early, we can:

• Slow down the progression of myopia

• Reduce the child’s lifetime prescription strength

• Lower the risk of sight-threatening conditions in adulthood

• Improve quality of life, with less dependence on stronger corrective lenses

Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam Today

Rapid vision changes in children should never be ignored. Our goal is to identify these changes early and recommend effective myopia control treatments that protect your child’s vision now and for the future.

If your child has experienced rapid changes in their vision, now is the time to act. Contact Riverdell Vision to schedule a comprehensive eye exam and learn more about our myopia control options. Visit our office in Oradell, New Jersey, or call (201) 268-7566 to book an appointment today.