Is it better for a child with myopia to wear glasses or not?

Aug 31, 2021 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Cui Xin

Introduction

In general, myopia is the most common refractive error in children. However, whether glasses are needed after myopia develops remains a concern for many. Typically, the appropriate treatment approach is as follows: if a child is diagnosed with pseudomyopia following a comprehensive eye examination, glasses are not required. Instead, pseudomyopia may resolve spontaneously through maintaining healthy visual habits or using low-concentration atropine eye drops.

In general, if a child develops myopia, timely treatment is essential. For preschool children with mild myopia (within −1.00 diopter), it is recommended to adjust visual habits—such as engaging in appropriate outdoor activities daily—to help control myopia progression. In cases of high myopia, prompt medical evaluation is necessary to determine whether amblyopia is also present. So, should children with myopia wear glasses—or not? Below, we address this question.

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Should Children with Myopia Wear Glasses?

Myopia is one of the most common refractive errors among children. Whether or not glasses are needed after myopia onset remains a concern for many parents. The appropriate management approach is as follows: If a child is diagnosed with pseudomyopia following a comprehensive eye examination, glasses are generally unnecessary. Instead, maintaining healthy visual habits—or using low-concentration atropine eye drops—may facilitate recovery from pseudomyopia. However, if true (axial) myopia is confirmed, early spectacle correction is strongly advised. Without proper optical correction, the child’s vision will remain blurry, exacerbating ocular fatigue and accelerating myopic progression.

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Knowledge Extension: How to Prevent Myopia

1. Perform Eye Exercises Regularly

Regular eye exercises can effectively relieve eye fatigue. Acupressure on key points—including the temples (Taiyang) and Jingming acupoint—can promote ocular blood circulation and alleviate myopia symptoms. Additionally, consuming foods rich in vitamin A and protein—such as carrots, milk, and eggs—supports ocular health and aids visual recovery.

2. Gaze into the Distance Frequently

Gazing at distant objects helps regulate the eye’s crystalline lens. When myopia is present, this practice relaxes the ciliary muscle and eases visual strain. Furthermore, viewing green plants can benefit vision: because green light has a relatively short wavelength, its focal point falls slightly anterior to the retina, producing a soothing effect that promotes visual relaxation and recovery.

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3. Maintain Proper Posture While Sitting

Maintaining correct sitting posture is crucial, as many cases of declining vision stem from improper visual habits. During study or work, avoid squinting; keep the eyes approximately 30–40 cm away from reading materials; refrain from reading while lying down; and regularly look into the distance to support visual recovery.

The above outlines considerations regarding whether children with myopia should wear glasses. We hope this information proves helpful.

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Can myopia degree be reduced?

In general, whether myopia (nearsightedness) can be reduced is not universally applicable—it primarily depends on the type of myopia and the eye’s developmental status. A case-by-case analysis is required. In daily life, avoid prolonged near-vision tasks; take a 5–10 minute break every ~40 minutes of near work, looking into the distance to relax the ciliary muscle. Ensure sufficient daily outdoor activity time.