Myopia and close up work?

Question

Ok, I've read a whole bunch of questions about myopia and how it is due to genetics and close up work. Genetics you're born with it and we can't stop doing stuff like reading. Most kids become myopic around the age of 8 -12. So here's my question: Do you believe myopia is due to excessive close up work? If yes, how often should a child take breaks after doing close up work for some time? How long should the breaks be? Thanks. If there is no cure for myopia, at least there might be a way to minimize its effects.

Answer 1

I highly doubt that myopia is due to genetics- in the past less people needed glasses than they do now- with things like computers, books, compulsory education etc its no wonder more and more people are developin myopia (regardless of family history or not) because of excessive close work.

You can help relieve eyestrain when doing close work by taking breaks every 20-30 minutes and if you do need glasses for myopia you should take them off for near work if you don't want eyestrain and worsening vision.

It is possible to improve vision doing eye exercises eg-Bates Method, but you need to do them religiously and everyday if you want to get the results you want.

Using plus lenses (glasses for farsightedness) for prolonged close work can also help improve vision because it helps eliminate eyestrain and any near point stress the eye experiences when close work is being done.

Check the below websites (and any links) to find out more infomation- its quite interesting to read.

Answer 2

There is no scientific proof to say close-up work will increase your degree of myopia.  However, there is a general consensus among opthalmologists to agree excessive close up work causes myopia.  No one actually know how often or long you should be reading at close-up before taking breaks.  Perhaps regular intervals half hourly.  The power of glasses and visual acuity should be monitored 4 - 6 monthly in children.

Dr. Yeoh Phee Liang

Consultant Eye Surgeon

www.advancevision.net.my

Answer 3

i think it is becos of many reason. The above might be one of the reason. There is cure for that and that is lasik.