Pseudomyopia, often referred to as false or spurious myopia, is a condition seen in children and adolescents where the eye temporarily focuses as if it is short-sighted. This condition can be exacerbated by prolonged near tasks like reading or screen use. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers holistic methods to address the underlying stress and imbalance that may contribute to pseudomyopia, emphasizing the importance of eye health and overall well-being.

TCM Insights into Managing Pseudomyopia in Children: Fostering Eye Health and Balance

Introduction

Pseudomyopia in children is commonly influenced by excessive strain on the eyes, leading to a temporary difficulty in seeing distant objects clearly. TCM approaches this condition by enhancing the liver’s health, which in TCM is believed to govern the eyes, and by promoting a balanced lifestyle to support eye health.

Understanding Pseudomyopia

Pseudomyopia results from the overuse of the eyes’ focusing mechanism, causing the eye to adapt to a state of near vision. This is not a permanent form of myopia but can lead to true myopia if not addressed. Symptoms typically include blurred distant vision that improves after resting the eyes.

A children wearing glasses

TCM Approach to Pseudomyopia

TCM views pseudomyopia as primarily a deficiency of the liver and kidney Yin, which nourishes the eyes, and an accumulation of liver heat or stress that affects eye function:

• Acupuncture: Specific points around the eyes and on the body can help balance the Qi and blood flow to the eyes, reducing strain and improving vision.
• Herbal Medicine: Herbs like Gou Qi Zi (Goji berries), Ju Hua (Chrysanthemum flower), and He Shou Wu can nourish the liver and kidney, enhancing eye health.
• Eye Exercises: TCM recommends specific exercises that help relax and strengthen the eye muscles, improving focus adjustments.
• Dietary Recommendations: A diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E, and omega-3 fatty acids, known to support eye health, is encouraged. Foods like carrots, spinach, and fish are beneficial.

Modern Medical Treatments (Supplementary)

While TCM offers a preventive and supportive approach, modern medicine provides additional strategies:

• Vision Therapy: Exercises and tasks prescribed by eye care professionals to train the visual system to correct itself.
• Proper Ergonomics: Ensuring that children maintain a proper distance from screens and books to reduce eye strain.

Combining Approaches for Comprehensive Eye Health

Integrating TCM with contemporary eye care practices can provide a holistic strategy to manage pseudomyopia effectively, focusing on reducing eye strain and supporting overall eye health.

Preventive Measures

• Regular Breaks: Following the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds) to reduce eye strain.
• Adequate Lighting: Ensuring that reading and screen time occur in well-lit environments to minimize eye strain.
• Outdoor Activities: Encouraging outdoor play, which can help relax the eye muscles and reduce the risk of progressing to true myopia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Pseudomyopia in children, while concerning, can be effectively managed with a combination of TCM and modern eye care techniques. This integrated approach not only focuses on immediate symptoms but also on long-term eye health and preventing the progression to true myopia.