Vision Therapy in Osage Beach

Does Myopia Run in Families?

(573) 552-8569

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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- Mar. 31, 2025
Very friendly treats you like family and very affordable work our insurance highly recommend if you ... need eye exam or glasses or more intensive exam this is the place
- Mar. 28, 2025
you will be happy
- Mar. 15, 2025
Dr. Dettmer, He’s very professional, very patient, super nice guy. I’ve been seeing him for year... s. Love the staff too.
- Mar. 13, 2025
All the staff were friendly and professional. Dr Dettmer took time to explain and set a course for t... he future. Good experience!
- Mar. 10, 2025
After moving to OB full time I was looking for an Eye Clinic as good as the one from home, this plac... e was it. The staff was very professional and friendly.
- Mar. 01, 2025
I searched everywhere to find a great eye doctor/ outfit and I believe I succeeded. From the moment ... I walked in until the moment I left I was treated with patience,kindness,professionalism and most of all Respect. These girls were wonderful! I only once had been seen by a previous outfit that made me very uncomfortable to even attempt to be seen again due to the lack of knowledge and unprofessionalism. I gave it a 2nd chance and as I stated earlier am very grateful to you all! Your all a 10 out of 10 in my book! Book your appointment...you won't be sorry!!!
- Feb. 26, 2025
Compassionate caring staff and good service
- Jan. 08, 2025
Great experience. The entire staff was friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. I have already reccome... nded them.
- Dec. 08, 2024
Excellent experience and I appreciate the time that was spent with me to address any questions or co... ncerns
- Nov. 20, 2024
Just want to say how amazing this place is! I was referred to them by a coworker after I had been to... another eye doctor twice spending well over $1000 and still not being able to see properly. First when I came in I was asked if I had insurance, and I told them no the girl still took my insurance card and checked and surprise surprise I did have insurance so because she took the initiative She saved me money just by walking in the door. Then they took pictures of my eyes which were discussed during my exam , which was very thorough and informative. I learned that I needed not only glasses for reading but for distance this was never addressed in prior appointments at the other doctors office. Today I picked up my new glasses and it’s amazing how different it is when you can actually see . I just want to thank everybody doctor and staff for taking the time and doing a great job and making it to where I can see you guys are awesome!
- Nov. 13, 2024
New patient. First impressions all Five Star!
- Nov. 03, 2024
Clean, professional, and friendly environment at this office. You’ll feel welcomed upon arrival a... nd educated upon leaving. Wonderful experience!
- Nov. 01, 2024
Really great experience. Dr. Dettmer and staff were great. Could not recommend this place more!
- Oct. 19, 2024
Dr. Dettemer is the best eye doctor ever. I am 65 years old and for years have had a hard time gett... ing a good prescription. When I got my new glasses I was amazed at all I could see and all that I had been missing. It was like getting glasses for the first time all over. Highly recommend him and his entire staff!
- Oct. 18, 2024
I was very pleased with Family Eye care. The staff are friendly and accommodating. Dr. Dittmer wa... s very informative and explained everything I needed to know. I am very happy with this service.
- Aug. 16, 2024
We were in town for a few days for my mother-in-law's funeral when my husband's glasses fell apart. ... I did a Google search and found Family Eyecare- Osage Beach just .3 mi. from where we were staying. They were SO nice and had his glasses fixed and us back on the road in no time. Thank you all SO much! You saved the day! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
- Aug. 03, 2024
The entire office staff are so kind and wonderful. I was given an explanation of my benefits that I ... had no idea about, I was able to get non prescription sunglasses since I didn't need glasses or contacts this time. Dr. Dettmer is so kind and thorough. I would definitely recommend this office.
- Jul. 22, 2024
Staffs & Dr is so nice & I would recommend this Eyecare to go to, I promise ya'll won't regret it!
- Jul. 10, 2024
The staff is amazing and cares about why you're there. We are thankful to have found this practice....
- Jun. 14, 2024
Was able to take care of my eye when the er and specialist couldn’t greatly appreciate them

View All 615 Reviews

Myopia Management in Osage Beach

Our optometry practice in Osage Beach

Photograph of Thomas Dettmer
Hours
  • Monday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tuesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Wednesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thursday 8:00 am - 5:00 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
  • Blue Cross

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 Family Eyecare - Osage Beach today to explore your options and ensure a clear, bright future for your child.

(573) 552-8569