Vision Therapy in Elgin

Does Myopia Run in Families?

(847) 888-1555

Exploring the Hereditary Nature of Myopia

Myopia, more commonly known as nearsightedness, is a visual condition that results in blurry distance vision while nearby objects remain clear. Concerns about your child's sight often lead to the question: Does myopia run in families? Understanding the genetic aspects of myopia is crucial for proactive management.

kids in classroom


mom reading book to child

The Genetic Factor

Myopia does indeed have a genetic link. If one or both parents have myopia, the likelihood of their children developing this condition increases. When both parents have myopia, the risk is even greater. Indeed, the genetic factors contributing to myopia can pass from generation to generation.

Environmental Factors

Lifestyle choices and daily habits can significantly impact myopia development and progression. Excessive screen time, a lack of outdoor activities, and prolonged periods of near work, such as reading or studying, can increase the risk of myopia.

Children are especially susceptible to environmental factors as their visual systems are still developing. These external influences can work in tandem with genetics, shaping how myopia progresses over time.


Early Intervention is Key to Myopia Control

Knowing your family's myopia history can help you seek early intervention. Effective strategies can manage and control its progression, even with a genetic predisposition.

  • Lifestyle Adjustments

    Simple lifestyle changes, like reducing screen time and increasing outdoor activities, can reduce myopia progression and protect your child's visual health.

  • Dietary Choices

    Nutritional adjustments, such as a diet rich in eye-healthy nutrients, can support your child's vision and contribute to myopia management.

  • Regular Eye Exams

    Scheduling routine eye exams allows for early detection and timely intervention, which is crucial in managing myopia.

  • Educational Support

    Providing information and support about myopia to family and friends can raise awareness, foster understanding, and create a network of care.

Patient Reviews
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350 Reviews
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- Dec. 01, 2024
I first started coming here back in like the mid 90s or maybe earlier than that when we first moved ... to the south Elgin area so like since I’ve been a kid I’ve been coming here and then sometimes I’ve gotten older and changed insurance. Unfortunately I wasn’t able to be a member therefore a time and that really disappointed me but now I’ve got really great insurance and of course there’s no other place. I’d rather be than Elgin Family Eyecare. I trust them and I’m very picky about my eyes. I don’t just let anybody look at them. 🙂
- Nov. 27, 2024
The staff were so kind and helpful.
- Nov. 12, 2024
Dr ONeill has great expertise and conduct. The staff are all kind and helpful.
- Nov. 05, 2024
The staff and Dr. Petroczky were great and made the visit to the eye doctor a pleasant experience
- Oct. 25, 2024
friendly, efficient and professional
- Oct. 08, 2024
I was extremely satisfied & impressed with everything.
- Sep. 27, 2024
The staffs and doctors are kind and friendly to the children. Also, their consideration and understa... nding towards me, who is my poor English, was wonderful.
- Sep. 21, 2024
Our entire family uses Elgin Family Eyecare, including our daughter (since she was four!) They're al... l so great!
- Sep. 11, 2024
Always great service, kind staff, and the best doctors anywhere.
- Sep. 09, 2024
Love our new optometrist and staff very friendly and professional. My husband and I saw Dr. O’Neil... l and loved that he took the time to ask if we had any plans for the day and on top was very profesional and answer all of our questions. Our Daughter saw Dr. Kennedy and although he wasn’t able to perform an extended visit due to our daughter needs he was extraordinary professional. Also Gilbert was very patient with teaching her with eye contact lenses. Thank you!
- Aug. 16, 2024
Easy to make an appointment, friendly service and affordable.
- Aug. 05, 2024
The staff was excellent with my young son. Staff was caring and kind. It was very busy that Sarurday... but we never felt rushed or not taken care of. Appointment was efficient, prompt and Dr. O'Neil was attentive and professional.
- Aug. 02, 2024
My son can be a bit wild since he is 5 but the staff was very kind and patient with him
- Jul. 24, 2024
Very detail orientated--highly recommend Elgin Eye Care!!
- Jul. 10, 2024
The service was efficient and delightful. My son and I thoroughly adored Dr. Kennedy. He kept us smi... ling and laughing through both of our exams.
- Jul. 08, 2024
Wow what a great place! Stellar service with all my questions answered. Plus I CAN SEE NOW!! Yippee!... !
- Jun. 27, 2024
Dr Nakajima is incredibly informative and the other staff members I encountered were very friendly a... nd approachable.
- Jun. 21, 2024
I trust Dr. Brauer and the rest of the staff and I feel confident I am getting the best care possibl... e.
- May. 05, 2024
I was looking for a new pair of glasses at Elgin Family Eye Care. Lexi is a wonderful help! She list... ened to my preferences for frames and helped me to discover several possibilities. (It would have taken me hours to work through the many styles, shapes and frame colors.). She answered my questions and made this experience very pleasant! If you need help picking out new frames, I recommend Lexi!!
- Apr. 28, 2024
They were great

View All 350 Reviews

Myopia Management in Elgin

Our optometry practice in Elgin

Photograph of Michael Kennedy
Hours
  • Monday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Tuesday 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Wednesday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Thursday 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Friday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Saturday 8:00 am - 2:00 pm
  • Sunday Closed
  • Dec. 25 Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Spectera
  • MetLife
  • Blue Cross

boy in eye exam

Professional Myopia Solutions for Your Family

Understanding the hereditary aspect of myopia is the first step in addressing your concerns. Discover how our experts can help manage the risks of myopia within your family. Visit Elgin Family EyeCare today to explore your options and ensure a clear, bright future for your child.

(847) 888-1555