Spending more time outside may help slow the progression of short-sightedness.
Although there is no conclusive evidence on how to prevent short-sightedness, numerous studies have indicated the following may well assist in preventing or slowing the progression of short-sightedness in both children and adults.
- Increase the amount of time you spend outside each day. The brightness of natural light is thought to limit the rate of progression.
- Take regular breaks from close work e.g. look away from your desk for a minute or so to change focus, or change tasks every 30-60 minutes to alter the focusing demands on your vision.
- Try to limit additional close work (over and above school or work) to two hours per day. This includes reading, hand held computer games, drawing, homework and computer work.
- There has been a role suggested for vitamin D in the control of myopia and although there is currently no significant evidence to support this, we would suggest that you may wish to take vitamin D supplements.