Vision Therapy in North Richland Hills

Does Myopia Run in Families?

(817) 281-3386

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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214 Reviews
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- Nov. 02, 2024
Dr Barber was very thorough and knowledgeable. I never felt rushed and I felt like he answered all m... y concerns.
- Oct. 30, 2024
I'm so thankful for Dr Barber at SW Vision Center. Although I'll dearly miss Dr Mario, both of thes... e docs are extremely knowledgeable. My vision is somewhat tricky due to normal scar tissue from RK 30 years ago. After seeing at least 5 docs who had no idea what they were doing and giving me prescriptions that never worked, Dr Mario recommended I just buy several strengths of readers (over 15 years ago). That was perfect until the last few months. I reluctantly had a prescription done with Dr Barbara last week and feel like I can see so much better now!
- Oct. 17, 2024
Very professional staff that listens. Dr. Barber does a wonderful job in listening and then finding... the solution.
- Aug. 27, 2024
Great Staff, very thorough eye exam. Nice selection of frames.
- Aug. 16, 2024
My appointment went really great! The office teams was friendly and efficient; just what I am looki... ng for at an appointment.
- Jul. 15, 2024
Dr Haley Vadilko is awesome! All of the staff are amazing! I would recommend to anyone.
- May. 18, 2024
Great friendly staff
- May. 09, 2024
Staff are all very friendly, doctor is thorough and they have early hours.
- May. 07, 2024
Dr. Vasilko and her staff are amazing. Definitely the best experience I've had for glasses and conta... cts (and I've been wearing glasses since I was in first grade). Courtney helped me pick frames that flattered my face and everything went great. Keep up the great work!
- Apr. 03, 2024
EXCELLENT! You know when some folks enter a room and the energy changes for the better! THAT was m... y experience with Dr. Mario Contaldi! He was VERY helpful and made it a GREAT visit. I'd give 10 stars if I could!
- Feb. 21, 2024
Dr. Vasilko is a great optometrist. Very informative and was quick to diagnose the problem my left e... ye was having! I will be coming back for future eye problems.
- Feb. 20, 2024
Great optometrist. Quick. Easy appointment and answered all my questions. The selection of glasses i... s immense. By far, the best selection of glasses in one place I have ever seen. The prices are reasonable. Recommended. The staff is knowledgable and easy to work with.
- Feb. 04, 2024
Great service for a perfect prescription!
- Dec. 28, 2023
Dr. Contaldi is the BEST!
- Nov. 14, 2023
I enjoy the personalized experience at Southwest Vision Center! The staff is super friendly, and th... ey make my yearly eye exams super easy.
- Nov. 02, 2023
Highly recommend. I no longer need reading glasses to read fine print due to RX change. Plus saved... money on contacts. Very nice staff. Best ever!
- Oct. 26, 2023
Great service! Friendly, welcoming, and professional. I'm glad I found them so close to where I live... .
- Sep. 01, 2023
Great staff and Doctor. Always friendly and professional.
- Aug. 22, 2023
Very nice experience, and I love my new glasses.
- Aug. 10, 2023
I've been going here since I was in elementary school, now I'm in my 30s! They've always been helpfu... l and staff has always been great. Definitely trust them with my vision!

View All 214 Reviews

Myopia Management in North Richland Hills

Our optometry practice in North Richland Hills

Photograph of David  Barber
Hours
  • Monday 7:30 am - 12:00 pm
    1:00 pm - 5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 7:30 am - 12:00 pm
    1:00 pm - 5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 7:30 am - 12:00 pm
    1:00 pm - 5:30 pm
  • Thursday 7:30 am - 12:00 pm
    1:00 pm - 5:30 pm
  • Friday 7:30 am - 12:00 pm
    1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Spectera
  • EyeMed
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • 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 Southwest Vision Center today to explore your options and ensure a clear, bright future for your child.

(817) 281-3386