Vision Therapy in Jefferson City

Does Myopia Run in Families?

(573) 635-1313

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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844 Reviews
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- Dec. 19, 2024
The staff is amazing!!! I stepped on my glasses and broke the frame. The staff was able to find me... a replacement frame extremely quickly. I highly recommend you come here for your eye care needs.
- Dec. 14, 2024
the ONLY place to get glasses!
- Dec. 08, 2024
Stellar customer service! And my favorite (nerdy) part is the purposeful and unobtrusive efforts the... y make to ensure time is managed well *without* making patients feel rushed or unattended. For example, they use an adaptation of a technique called Kanban, where a visual on the wall alerts patients in the waiting area to whether or not the doctors on are on time or not. This may seem minor but it effectively communicates if there will be an extended wait. I also noticed that a staff member who works with patients to choose eyewear came into the exam room at the end of my exam, presumably at a predetermined time to help the entire staff remain on track for the appointments for the day. If a medical team is that dedicated to simple time management strategies, imagine the level of care and dedication they exhibit when it comes to patient care and eye health! As long as I live in the area, I will continue to receive care from Eyes on Missouri and encourage everyone else I know to do the same!
- Dec. 06, 2024
Highly recommend Eyes on Missouri! I was greeted as soon as I walked in the door and the staff help... ed in getting a great frame that fit my face and bridge.
- Dec. 02, 2024
Great experience an quality
- Nov. 22, 2024
Everyone here from in to out was very pleasant, efficient and helpful.
- Nov. 14, 2024
They are very nice people super fast
- Nov. 02, 2024
I’ve been going here for years love the customer service and the quality of the glasses! So many c... hoices too!
- Oct. 18, 2024
Great services. Doctor and staff are very friendly. Thorough exam and excellent service.
- Oct. 11, 2024
Dr. Zahn is knowledgeable and caring. All of the staff and assistants are friendly.
- Oct. 07, 2024
Love them and the new location.
- Oct. 07, 2024
Friendly staff and good service!
- Oct. 04, 2024
Kelli went above and beyond my expectations. Wonderful service.
- Oct. 02, 2024
The eye care team is the best from scheduling an eye exam to getting your new glasses. I couldn't ha... ve done it without you all. And a special shout out to beautiful Kelli. She is awesome.
- Oct. 02, 2024
Dr. Zahn was great!! Very knowledgeable and patient with my kids!! Jamie, the optician, was sweet an... d very helpful when we ordered glasses. And she's got a great smile 😊
- Sep. 25, 2024
Dr Zahn is a wonderful, caring person and the staff is very helpful and nice.
- Sep. 18, 2024
Nikki was wonderful. Helped me look great and my eyes are smiling
- Sep. 13, 2024
Can’t recommend Dr. Zahn enough!
- Aug. 26, 2024
Great with kids! Very patient with my squirmy 6 year old.
- Aug. 03, 2024
Everyone was so nice and very helpful! They also have a great selection of eye glasses.. I will defi... nitely be back!!

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Myopia Management in Jefferson City

Our optometry practice in Jefferson City

Photograph of Elizabeth Hedgpath
Hours
  • Monday 7:15 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tuesday 7:15 am - 5:00 pm
  • Wednesday 7:15 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thursday 7:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • Aetna
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Spectera
  • Anthem
  • Medicaid
  • MetLife

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 Eyes On Missouri - Jefferson City today to explore your options and ensure a clear, bright future for your child.

(573) 635-1313