Nearsightedness is a common variation of normal vision. People who are nearsighted will be able to see objects up close very well but may have difficulty seeing at a distance. Objects at a distance will often appear out of focus or blurry.

Signs

Many times, nearsightedness begins during the grade school years. Since children may be less apt to tell you about changes in their vision, simply because they don't yet have an understanding of the concept, there are certain signs you can watch for in your child:

• Sitting close to the television

• Squinting or rubbing his eyes often

• Holding books and other objects close to his face

• Asking to sit in the front of the classroom or in the front row of the movie theater so he can see better

• A reluctance to participate in activities that require distance vision such as sports

Diagnosis

An eye exam with an optometrist can diagnose nearsightedness. This comprehensive eye exam is a painless, noninvasive event that can easily determine your prescription level need to restore your vision to its greatest level.

Treatment

Contact lenses and glasses are both an option for someone who is nearsighted. For small children, eyeglasses are typically recommended over contact lenses. Once a child nears teen years, contact lenses may be an option depending on the child's level of comfort with inserting the contact lens and properly caring for and maintaining contact lenses.

If you are having problems with tasks that require vision at a distance, contact your optometrist for an eye exam today. Prescription lenses can have you seeing better and back in the game.

Related Articles:

What does farsightedness look like?

Eye Exams Are More Than Just Vision Tests