Pediatric eye care is a specialized branch of ophthalmology focused on the eye health and visual development of children. Early detection and treatment of eye conditions in children are crucial for ensuring proper vision development, which plays a vital role in their overall growth and learning.
It is recommended that children have their first comprehensive eye exam at six months of age, followed by additional exams at age three, and before starting school at around age five. Regular eye exams should continue throughout childhood to monitor vision development.
Signs of vision problems in children include frequent squinting, covering one eye, tilting the head to see better, sitting too close to the TV, difficulty reading, excessive tearing, or complaining of headaches or eye strain. If you notice any of these signs, schedule an eye exam for your child.
Amblyopia, or lazy eye, is a condition where one eye has weaker vision than the other. It is typically treated by patching the stronger eye to force the weaker eye to work harder, or through corrective lenses or vision therapy. Early treatment is crucial for successful outcomes.
Strabismus is a condition where the eyes are not aligned properly, causing one eye to turn in, out, up, or down. It can often be corrected with glasses, vision therapy, or surgery, depending on the severity and underlying cause.
To protect your child’s eyes, ensure they wear protective eyewear during sports or activities that pose a risk of eye injury. Teach them the importance of not rubbing their eyes and encourage taking breaks during screen time to prevent eye strain.
Cataracts are a clouding of the eye’s natural lens that causes vision impairment. They should be treated with surgery when they begin to affect your daily activities or quality of life.
