Hyperopia in Children: Does It Increase Without Glasses and When Is Intervention Needed?

Recent discussions have centered around the common condition known as hyperopia in children, centered around questions such as whether untreated hyperopia can worsen and under what circumstances glasses are necessary. I have seen firsthand over 36 years as an optometrist that kids with hyperopia can face serious issues such as the development of amblyopia if they do not wear the corrective glasses prescribed.

Does Hyperopia Increase Without Glasses?

One key point to address is the misconception that hyperopia, or farsightedness, will increase if a child does not wear their glasses. According to my experience, this is not the case. If a child with hyperopia does not wear the glasses prescribed for them, their eyes will not develop normally. The risk here is significant and can lead to a condition known as amblyopia, or lazy eye, in both eyes. This underscores the importance of proper corrective lenses not just for vision clarity but also for eye health.

When Is Glasses Wearing Necessary?

In the case of a 3.9-year-old with 3.25 diopters of hyperopia, it is crucial that they wear their glasses. This prescription is significant and if left untreated, can lead to a regression in vision and a higher risk of amblyopia. Glasses should be worn full-time for many years, especially during the developmental period which extends well into adulthood, until at least 20 years old or older.

Can Hyperopia Improve Over Time?

While it is true that some children may see a reduction in hyperopia as they grow, this does not mean they can avoid glasses in the short term. In fact, failure to wear glasses can result in regression, a worsening of the condition. Growth and changes in prescription stabilize around 17 to 21 years old. So, while some children might see a reduction in severity, they should still wear their prescribed glasses, especially during critical developmental periods.

What Happens if a Child Starts Wearing Glasses?

It is sometimes suggested that glasses should only be worn when absolutely necessary, to avoid dependency. However, the benefits of wearing glasses, especially when prescribed by a professional, far outweigh the risks of not wearing them. When glasses are worn consistently, they can prevent the progression of amblyopia and help preserve vision clarity.

Children’s Eye Development and Vision Health

It is essential to understand the importance of consistent use of glasses prescribed for hyperopia. Not wearing glasses can lead to several issues, including amblyopia, where the brain prefers to ignore images from one eye, leading to vision loss in that eye. Consistent use of glasses ensures that both eyes receive proper visual stimuli, promoting balanced eye development and better overall vision.

Conclusion and Professional Advice

Addressing hyperopia in children is not just about improving vision; it is about ensuring their long-term eye health and preventing serious complications such as amblyopia. Early intervention and the consistent use of prescribed glasses are crucial to ensure proper vision development.

If you have any concerns about your child's vision or have been advised to wait and see if the condition improves, it is advisable to seek a second opinion from professional optometrists or ophthalmologists. Early intervention can significantly impact the long-term health of your child's vision.

Always prioritize professional medical advice over online information, where accuracy and expertise can vary widely.