Vision Therapy in White Bear Lake

Does Myopia Run in Families?

(651) 426-2747

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.


Meet our Myopia Management Specialist

Patient Reviews
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482 Reviews
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- Mar. 08, 2025
The friendly service was great. The explanation of insurance coverage was simple and awesome. Smilin... g reception from glasses fitting crew. From beginning to finish I felt like a cared for person. TY
- Feb. 28, 2025
Highly recommend
- Feb. 14, 2025
I have been seeing Dr. Kevin Lucas for 15 years. He and all the staff at Birch Lake Eye Clinic are f... abulous and attentive to your eye needs.
- Jan. 31, 2025
Everyone I met was so friendly, helpful and professional!
- Jan. 10, 2025
Dr. Lucas is a exceptional Dr. and and always has answers for any question you might throw at him. G... O MN WILD!!!
- Dec. 16, 2024
Dr Grudem and Dr Lucas are the best. Always friendly, competent, and timely.
- Dec. 14, 2024
Friendly staff and efficient process. No longer do they dilate your eyes during the exam - opt for t... he alternative with a minimal out-of-pocket expense.
- Nov. 30, 2024
I had a wonderful experience at Birch Lake Eye Clinic! Everyone was very kind and friendly, especial... ly Vanessa!!! She was so sweet and helpful, and she really made it a point to get me the best deal possible. I would highly recommend!
- Nov. 19, 2024
This was my first visit to Birch Lake Eye Clinic for my annual exam. The staff was very welcoming a... nd efficient. Dr Lucas was thorough and took time to explain the health of my eyes and what to expect going forward. I highly recommend Dr Lucas and his team for your eye health.
- Nov. 11, 2024
Great!
- Nov. 09, 2024
Everyone is very nice and helpful.
- Oct. 26, 2024
This was my first time at the Birch lake Clinic. Everyone I came in contact with were very caring an... d kind. Dr. Lucas was very informational and professional. I’m happy I picked him as my eye dr.!
- Oct. 23, 2024
Dr. Lucas and staff are great.
- Sep. 23, 2024
I feel comfortable in place and bright good positive
- Sep. 18, 2024
Everyone was soo wonderful. From the moment I stepped in to check in and to when I chose my glasses,... all staffs were so nice and welcoming. The doctors educated me well and I felt very comfortable. This will be my forever eye place unless of course I move away
- Sep. 07, 2024
Very positive
- Jul. 24, 2024
Dr. Lucas is exceptional and possesses a deep understanding of eye care. He identified a serious con... dition early on, preventing significant permanent damage. I have complete trust in his expertise and the way he cares for my eyes. Without hesitation, I would highly recommend him and the team at Birch Lake Eye Clinic.
- Jul. 22, 2024
Everyone was so friendly! They helped me pick out the perfect frames and the exam process was so eas... y.
- Jun. 12, 2024
Everyone is amazing, They were quick with getting me in for a emergency with my vision. The staff wa... s very kind and empathic to my concerns. The providers are also Great. Making sure they are quick but there to answer all the question you have. They also do a great job of recommending other providers for services that they don't do in their clinic. I go to both Blaine and White Bear Lake Locations. Both Clinics have wonderful staff and providers.
- Jun. 09, 2024
Wonderful experience for my son, very welcoming

View All 482 Reviews

Myopia Management in White Bear Lake

Our optometry practice in White Bear Lake

Photograph of Brian  Grudem
Hours
  • Monday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tuesday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wednesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thursday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • Spectera
  • Superior Vision
  • Davis Vision
  • EyeMed
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield

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 Birch Lake Eye Clinic today to explore your options and ensure a clear, bright future for your child.

(651) 426-2747