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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461 Reviews
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- Apr. 24, 2025
Staff and doctors are friendly, share info freely, explain any issues fully, make sure I understand ... completely.
- Apr. 22, 2025
Great communication, great care.
- Apr. 12, 2025
Great team from the minute you walk in the door to the caring and super knowledgeable doctor. Small ... but mighty eye and vision care provider.
- Apr. 06, 2025
Best eye clinic I have found in the Olympia/Lacey area. They listen and they take their time to ensu... re that your prescription is correct. They are respectful and friendly. I have been going here for years and have never had a problem.
- Apr. 05, 2025
We have been seeing (pun intended) the doctors and staff at the Hawk's Prairie Vision Clinic for mor... e than 10 years. The doctors and staff are consistently professional, communicate well, and very well educated about vision. I appreciate their willingness to answer my questions and provide such great customer service. AND, they are always on time! Kudos to Hawk's Prairie Vision Clinic!
- Apr. 02, 2025
The intern who assisted my wife and me was incredibly friendly. He answered all our questions and ke... pt us informed.
- Mar. 28, 2025
excellent staff, great atmosphere, beautiful clinic, very professional and personable too!
- Mar. 03, 2025
Dr Durham. Was amazing. Very personable, friendly. Great beside manor, knolwgable. Treated me with k... indness.
- Feb. 27, 2025
Wonderful staff and great care
- Feb. 22, 2025
On time, friendly, professional staff. I've been seeing the staff here for MANY years. Went to anoth... er facility but came back as I realized I made a mistake. So glad I came back!
- Feb. 21, 2025
The doctor and his staff do such a great job. I am very grateful to have found such knowledgeable an... d kind people to keep track of my eye health as I age.
- Feb. 20, 2025
Amazing, professional and friendly staff. I always enjoy my experience here.
- Feb. 09, 2025
Friendly. Explained all tests and results.
- Jan. 15, 2025
medical care is great. I trust them.
- Jan. 13, 2025
Fantastic service and really nice people.
- Jan. 10, 2025
Terrific all around! Happy people!
- Dec. 28, 2024
From the beginning the staff helped us at all times. The doctor was very kind and took the necessary... time to examine my child and was willing to answer our questions.
- Dec. 13, 2024
The whole staff is amazing- from the secretary’s to the eyeglass staff, and to The doctors and the... ir assistants. Check in is smooth and effortless. I’ve been coming to this clinic for nearly 20 Years (if not more)! And Within those years of seeing Michelle and Barb(ara) have been amazing to say the least! I always feel So Relaxed, happy, & blessed. We’ve clicked instantly (like long lost friends) for the years Barb/ Michelle have been there. I enjoy their company and the laughs we have. It does help That Michelle is a military spouse so that’s an added bonus!!! I wouldn’t trade them for The world and when I move to Tacoma area I’ll still keep Hawks prairie vision clinic my main eye care solution!
- Dec. 03, 2024
Staff is super friendly, helpful and your appointment time is accurate, no waiting, so arrive early....
- Nov. 27, 2024
Oh my God that Dr Michelle is always happy and she makes me happy she is energized I really like her... and I would recommend her to anyone

View All 461 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

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

(360) 459-3333