Congenital myopia is a condition where children are nearsighted from birth or develop it very early after birth. A common characteristic of congenital myopia is a higher prescription compared to school-aged myopia, appearing earlier and causing poor vision from the first years of life. Without timely detection and monitoring, children risk complications such as amblyopia, retinal degeneration, or retinal tears and detachment, which can have a long-term impact on vision.

Congenital myopia is closely linked to family history. Children with a parent who has severe myopia have a higher risk of congenital myopia. Some cases of congenital myopia may stem from abnormal eye development during the fetal stage, premature birth, low birth weight, or co-occurring systemic diseases. These factors cause abnormal eyeball structures, such as an elongated axial length or an excessively curved cornea.

Children with congenital myopia can experience a rapid increase in their prescription over time if not properly managed, especially during periods of significant body and eyeball growth. Regular vision monitoring helps ensure correct lens prescriptions and accurately assess myopia progression, thereby contributing to preserving the child's long-term vision.

Wearing the correct prescription glasses, as advised by an ophthalmologist, is a fundamental measure to help children maintain good vision. Parents should guide children towards scientific study and lifestyle habits, avoiding prolonged close-up eye work. Study environments must have adequate lighting, and screen time on electronic devices should be limited to reduce eye strain.

Nutrition plays a vital supportive role in children's eye care. Children should receive adequate vitamins and minerals beneficial for vision, such as vitamins A, C, E, and other essential micronutrients. Parents should also consult an eye care specialist about appropriate supportive measures for each age group to limit prescription increases and reduce complication risks.

Children with congenital myopia require regular eye examinations, typically once every 6 to 12 months, to monitor prescription changes, detect early retinal abnormalities, and assess the disease's progression rate. Depending on the child's myopia level and its progression, the ophthalmologist may prescribe supportive control measures, such as contact lenses, specialized eyeglasses, or eye drops. Early detection and proper management allow for adjusting care plans according to each developmental stage, helping children maintain good vision and limit future complication risks.

Dr. Le Thanh Huyen, M.Sc.

High-Tech Eye Center

Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi