In the era where digital screens rule every sector, it is inevitable to stay away from screens for a long time. As a result, spending time on phones, tables etc has become more of an addiction. Having said that, since working from home and online classes have become a norm, children are spending more time than ever on smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Even though there are many advantages to using these devices for communication, entertainment, and education, there is rising worry about the possible negative health effects of excessive screen time, especially regarding eye health. Recent studies point to a concerning link between extended screen time and the onset of myopia, also referred to as nearsightedness.

Hence, in order to get a deeper understanding of how excessive screen time can lead to myopia, we got in touch with an eye doctor who helps us understand the causes, signs, and preventative measures you must take to protect your kid's eyesight.

Dr Mahipal Singh Sachdev (Padma Shree Awardee), Chairman and Managing Director, Center for Sight, New Delhi shares that when the cornea is excessively curved or the eyeball becomes too long, light beams focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it, leading to myopia. Environmental variables are important in determining an individual's vulnerability to myopia, even though heredity plays a major impact.

- Overuse of screens has been linked to the initiation and development of myopia in children, especially during important stages of eye development.

- Reading, studying, and using digital gadgets up close are examples of extended near-work activities that might strain the eyes and interfere with normal visual development.

Dr Mahipal Singh shares that early detection and care for myopia in children depends on the ability to recognize its symptoms. Typical myopia symptoms include:

1. Hazy eyesight when looking at far-off objects

2. Squinting or rubbing of the eyes

3. Trouble seeing properly when driving, participating in sports, or watching TV

4. Headaches or eye strain complaints

5. Keeping digital devices or books closer than normal

6. Having trouble seeing the classroom screen or whiteboard

Dr Mahipal Singh explains that although there is no way to change a person's genetic tendency to myopia, parents can take the following proactive measures to lower their child's risk of developing myopia:

Limit Screen Time: Promote healthy screen-time practices and establish screen-free areas and hours, especially before bed and during meals.

Encourage Children to Play and Explore Nature: Get kids outside more often to engage in physical activities like sports and nature exploration. According to research, time spent outside may help lower the chance of developing myopia.

Ensure Correct Ergonomics: When teaching kids to use digital devices, emphasize good posture and ergonomics. This includes teaching them to take regular breaks, and practising the 20-20-20 rule (looking at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes).

Plan for Regular Eye Checkups: To maintain eye health and identify any vision changes early on, routine eye exams with an optometrist or ophthalmologist are crucial. Myopia can be slowed down in its progression and additional issues can be avoided with early management.

Wear Special Eyewear: To lessen eye strain and discomfort from extended screen use, special eyewear, such as progressive lenses or blue light-filtering glasses, may occasionally be advised.

“It is more important than ever to address the negative effects of excessive screen time on eye health, as myopia is becoming more and more common in youngsters globally. Parents may safeguard their children's vision and guarantee a lifetime of clean sight by sponsoring regular eye checkups, supporting outside activities, and encouraging healthy screen habits,” he further said.