When cataracts block out parts of the lens, the child's lens cannot focus images clearly on the retina, and this causes vision problems. Cataracts are often seen in children who are victims of child abuse. Steroid medicines can also cause cataracts. So can certain metabolic diseases . In nearsightedness , also called myopia , a child has problems seeing objects that are far away.
Nearsightedness tends to run in families, and it happens because of a simple physical problem.
In a nearsighted eye, images fall short of the retina and come out blurry. A family history also predisposes a child to this condition. One in five persons needs to wear eyeglasses for nearsightedness. Children often become nearsighted at about age 12, and their condition may get worse as they go through their teens. After age 20, their vision usually stabilises.