1. You read:
2. Homepage
3. Advisory
4. Headaches, Poorer Grades, and Confusing 3 for 8: Myopia and Astigmatism Are on the Rise Among Schoolchildren

Headaches, Poorer Grades, and Confusing 3 for 8: Myopia and Astigmatism Are on the Rise Among Schoolchildren

The beginning of the school year is a time of new experiences, challenges, and expectations for children. But along with their school bags come increased demands on their vision. In the classroom, they need to clearly read what’s written on the board and manage reading, writing, and other tasks that require sharp near vision. However, an increasing number of Czech children have a hidden vision problem that makes this more difficult. In addition to rapidly increasing myopia (short-sightedness), astigmatism is also becoming more common — a condition that distorts vision at all distances and can cause confusion between similar symbols, such as the numbers 3 and 8.

“Undiagnosed vision problems can lead to fatigue, headaches, reduced concentration, and poorer academic performance. Yet proper eyeglass correction can resolve these issues almost immediately,” says Andrea Janeková, MD, FEBO, FEBOS-CR, Head Doctor of Cataract, Refractive, and Vitreoretinal Surgery at Eye Centre Prague.

Myopia on the Rise

According to recent data, the number of children with myopia in the Czech Republic has increased by 30% over the past ten years. Eye specialists warn that if this trend continues, the number of children with myopia could double within the next 20 years. The causes lie in a combination of factors — excessive use of mobile phones and tablets, less time spent outdoors in natural daylight, and genetic predisposition. If both parents are short-sighted, the likelihood of their child developing the same problem is very high.

“The danger of myopia lies mainly in the potential development of eye diseases that occur more frequently in highly short-sighted individuals and can lead to permanent changes and significant vision impairment. These conditions tend to appear later in life and include retinal tears and detachment, damage to the macular area, and a higher incidence of glaucoma in myopic patients,” explains Andrea Janeková, MD, on the risks of myopia.

Astigmatism: A Vision Problem Many Parents Don’t Know About

Astigmatism is a less-known but common vision defect that can occur on its own or in combination with myopia or hyperopia. It is a so-called cylindrical refractive error caused by an irregular curvature of the cornea, or less commonly, the lens.

“It causes images to appear distorted or blurred regardless of distance. A child may then confuse similarly shaped letters and numbers — for example, 3 and 8 or P and R. This can negatively affect reading, writing, and text comprehension. At school, they may be seen as inattentive or slow, when in fact the right correction is all they need for their school performance to improve quickly,” adds Andrea Janeková, MD.

Warning Signs Parents Shouldn’t Overlook

The first signs of vision problems in children can be very subtle and are often mistaken for tiredness, lack of focus, or disinterest in school. Vision deterioration usually occurs gradually, and if the defect isn’t severe, the child may adapt to poorer sight without realising that they could see better — which is why children often don’t complain. Still, certain symptoms may point to a hidden vision problem that makes learning and everyday activities more difficult.

Typical signs include:

• Squinting when watching TV or looking at distant objects outdoors

• Decreased concentration while reading or writing

• Frequent headaches after school

• Confusing similarly shaped letters or numbers

If any of these symptoms appear, it’s important to book an eye examination. Vision is also tested during regular preventive check-ups with a paediatrician, which children undergo every two years — these can help detect emerging vision defects early. Based on the findings, an ophthalmologist will recommend appropriate correction — most commonly glasses, and for older children, contact lenses. In the case of myopia, special spectacle lenses can also be used; these not only provide clear vision but also help slow down the progression of myopia.

“Special lenses can not only correct refractive errors but also slow the progression of myopia. They ensure sharp vision in the centre and have a special peripheral zone that creates controlled defocus on the retina, helping to prevent further eye elongation,” explains Andrea Janeková, MD.

An Investment in Your Child’s Future

An eye examination before starting school is just as important as buying a backpack or school supplies. Early detection and correction of vision problems is an investment that pays off in the form of better grades, greater confidence, and a happier school experience.

As part of prevention, it’s recommended to limit time spent on mobile phones and tablets, ensure plenty of natural daylight, proper desk lighting, and regular breaks during reading or near work. A balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, is also essential for maintaining healthy eyes.

Here are a few tips about children’s vision: key facts, warning signs, and practical advice.