The Importance of Protecting a Growing Child’s Vision
Properly maintaining a child’s vision throughout the year is a given, but prior to the start of each school year is a particularly good time for parents to remember the importance of this activity. Eye disease that is diagnosed and treated in early childhood can slow progression and avoid irreversible damage in adulthood. For example, when myopia (nearsightedness) in young children is not treated at an early age, it becomes more difficult to correct blurriness and actually increases the risk of developing vision-threatening eye conditions in adulthood.
Primary care providers including family physicians and pediatricians can screen children for eye problems and then refer them to an ophthalmologist for a comprehensive exam if needed. As children grow, their vision will change. Although they may have excellent 20/20 eyesight , this can change over time. Undetected and untreated vision problems can lead to conditions such as lazy eye or even crossed eyes (strabismus).
The most common pediatric eye conditions to be aware of include:
- Astigmatism (problems with the eye’s shape that can lead to blurred vision)
- Myopia (nearsightedness)
- Hyperopia (farsightedness)
- Ptosis (droopy eyelids)
- Conjunctivitis (pinkeye)
- Styes
- Chalazions (bumps around the eye that can cause pain or compromise vision)
- Pediatric glaucoma
- Pediatric cataracts
- Double vision
- Nystagmus (rapid involuntary movements of the eyes)
- Epiphora (excessive tearing)
- Blocked tear ducts
Children can be susceptible to genetic eye conditions that are not always apparent at birth. Scheduling annual eye exams for children is an effective way to identify both common and less common vision issues prior to their becoming worse. Children can also be susceptible to pink eye since viral or bacterial pink eye (conjunctivitis) infections can spread fast in classrooms and dormitories.
Parents should also monitor their children if they observe an unusually high level of eyestrain. Although eyestrain generally is not serious and can go away once the eyes are rested, parents can remind their children of the following steps to reduce discomfort:
- Resting their eyes every 20 minutes from when they are using computers and other portable devices
- Remembering to blink
- Reducing glare on the screen
- Adjusting brightness and contrast on devices
Regular vision screenings for children are important. If they do not pass a vision screening in school or another location, they should be seen by an ophthalmologist or optometrist. In addition, they should be seen by an ophthalmologist or optometrist if they are at increased risk or a vision problem due to developmental delay, medical condition or a family history of vision problems.
Union Square Eye Care has offices conveniently located in Union Square and Harlem. These offices are easily accessible for patients throughout NYC and surrounding areas who are seeking top-notch ophthalmology and optometry services. We encourage you to consider Union Square Eye Care for all of your vision needs. With a legacy of excellence since 1986, our state-of-the-art facilities and experienced team are here to cater to all of your eye care needs. Don’t let vision problems go unchecked. Schedule your appointment today and ensure your eyes are in the best hands in New York City. Visit us online or call to learn more about how we can help you maintain optimal eye health.
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