Vision Therapy in Lacey

Does Myopia Run in Families?

(360) 459-3333

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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562 Reviews
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- Feb. 26, 2026
The people are great!
- Feb. 16, 2026
Hawk’s Prairie Vision Clinic is outstanding!
- Feb. 06, 2026
I was having an eye emergency and they quickly got me in. Dr. Bowles was very knowledgeable, thoroug... h in his exam, and was able to recommend an appropriate care plan that was outside of their scope of practice. This timely exam saved my vision.
- Jan. 24, 2026
I always have always had very good experiences at this clinic and would highly recommend it. My lat... est appointment was with Dr Bowles and I found him to be very thorough, friendly and explained things in depth. The people that work there are always friendly and very helpful. I couldn't be more pleased.
- Jan. 20, 2026
Highly recommend! Great staff. Knowledgeable and courteous. The only place I go for my eye care need... s!
- Jan. 15, 2026
Great place to get eye services at. Friendly staff
- Jan. 11, 2026
Dr. Michelle and the staff always show such great politeness and friendliness.
- Jan. 11, 2026
Would you like to break the old mold of sufferable services during you eye appointment? Hawks Prairi... e Vision Clinic has some of the best staff, brightening your mood, and like to joke with you. They are kind, knowledgeable, and very friendly.
- Jan. 07, 2026
Barb and Dr. Michelle are the best! Feels like family!
- Jan. 03, 2026
Good news or bad, it's always pleasant trip to this clinic. Especially Michelle and Barb.
- Dec. 19, 2025
Friendly, helpful staff and I love my doctors. They have been really great. I have been going here f... or several years and highly recommend.
- Dec. 17, 2025
Friendly and courteous staff. Modern and clean facility. Honest and straightforward answers.
- Dec. 11, 2025
Great staff! Everyone is friendly and helpful!
- Dec. 06, 2025
Great care and supportive staff. Dr Michelle is always so cheerful and pleasant to her patients. Lov... e going to this clinic.
- Dec. 05, 2025
Excellent front line staff and the Doctors are very easy to discuss the status of my eyes.
- Dec. 05, 2025
Great place for eye care. I had an emergency and they fit me in the same day, and took care of the p... roblem. I will be going back!
- Nov. 20, 2025
Providing authenticity along with the best care!
- Nov. 12, 2025
Absolutely wonderful experience!!!
- Nov. 11, 2025
Great service, Dr Michelle listened and addressed my concerns.
- Nov. 08, 2025
Dr. Michelle has the BEST personality & I 100% trust her. Barb starts the exam with some tests and ... she is wonderful. The office staff is delightful and one can tell it’s a great work environment with highly competent people. I look forward to my appointment just to interact with this team. My daughter (a nurse) & grandson also love this office.

View All 562 Reviews

Myopia Management in Lacey

Our optometry practice in Lacey

Photograph of Michelle Durham
Hours
  • Monday 8:30 am - 6:00 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am - 6:00 pm
  • Thursday 8:30 am - 6:00 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am - 4:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • EyeMed
  • Medicare
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Tricare
  • Medicaid
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • MetLife
  • Regence
  • Premera Blue Cross
  • First Choice Health
  • Providence Health Plan
  • Washington Apple Health Medicaid
  • Coordinated Care Ambetter
  • Shasta Health Insurance
  • United Healthcare

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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 Hawk's Prairie Vision Clinic today to explore your options and ensure a clear, bright future for your child.

(360) 459-3333