Does refractive error in children matter?

  Mild refractive errors in children usually do not cause too serious effects, but if they are more severe, it is important to intervene as early as possible in childhood to prevent the gradient from continuing to rise and missing the critical period for correction.  Refractive errors are classified as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism, and are essentially the inability of external light to focus properly on the retina at the base of the eye. If not corrected in time, high hyperopia may lead to amblyopia; astigmatism of more than two or three degrees may have an impact on visual development; myopia in childhood, if not effectively controlled, may also develop into high myopia, resulting in organic eye lesions, which seriously affects visual acuity. The above situation is important, and early consultation and timely treatment are recommended. However, pseudomyopia and mild hyperopia in children under 6 years old are relatively less serious and may recover on their own, but they need to pay attention to good eye habits in general.  If parents have high myopia and high hyperopia, they can be consulted regularly during the child’s vision development period. Usually, children can be allowed to play more outdoor sports, pay attention to eye rest and avoid eye strain.