Because a child’s vision is still developing, he or she is susceptible to eye disease. Vision can be harmed by untreated infections, refractive errors, and misaligned eyes. Healthy eyesight can be developed by detecting and correcting issues early on. To safeguard your child’s vision, learn about young eye disorders and have them screened on a regular basis.
Poor Eyesight Can Lead to Lazy Eye if Left Untreated
Blurred vision is caused by refractive defects. A child’s vision can be impaired at close range, far range, or both. A child’s vision can be lost, and they can develop a “lazy eye” if refractive errors are not treated promptly. With the right prescription glasses, you can correct your child’s refractive defects.
Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)
Amblyopia is a condition in which a child’s vision does not grow normally. It is also known as “lazy eye.” When refractive defects such as strabismus (misaligned eyes), droopy eyelids, or cataracts are left untreated, the child may develop amblyopia.
Strabismus (Crossed Eyes)
Strabismus (crossed or misaligned eyes) affects roughly 4% of children (4 out of 100). One eye may be fixed on the road ahead, while the other moves in, out, up, and down. The condition of strabismus must be addressed as soon as possible.
Ptosis (Droopy Eyelid)
Ptosis is a droopy eyelid that can make it difficult to see. If your child’s eyelid droops too low, surgery to elevate it may be required. The elevated eyelid protects that eye’s vision.
“Cloudy” Eyes Could Mean Cataracts
A cataract can cause a child’s eyes to appear hazy. When the normally clear lens inside the eye becomes hazy, this is known as a cataract. Cataracts are more common in older adults, but some children are born with them or develop them as a result of an accident. The majority of children require surgery to remove a cataract and restore their vision.
A clouded eye is a very rare symptom of retinoblastoma (cancer of the retina or back wall of the eye). At each exam, your child’s doctor checks for this.
A cellulitis infection of the eyelid or eye socket is known as cellulitis. The signs and symptoms are:
- eye swelling or bulging
- fever
- eyesight problems
- difficulties with eye movement
The infection has the potential to spread to other parts of the body, necessitating immediate medical attention.
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
Conjunctivitis is an infection or allergy-related inflammation of the white area of the eye. Pink eye can be caused by a virus, a bacterial infection (both of which are easily disseminated and contagious), or an allergic reaction (not contagious).
The eyes of a child may be red, itchy, teary, or discharged. If your child has contagious pink eye, keep them home from school. Pink eye normally clears up after a week. Symptoms can normally be managed at home, although your doctor may prescribe antibiotic eye drops.
Chalazion and Stye
A stye is a red, painful lump on the upper eyelid’s border. A bacterial infection is to blame. In rare circumstances, warm compresses with antibiotics are used to treat styes.
A chalazion is a swelling bump on the upper eyelid caused by an obstructed oil gland. Infection is not the cause. Warm compresses can frequently be used at home to treat a chalazion.
Blocked Tear Duct
A clogged tear duct affects 20% of babies (2 out of 10) at birth. Tears fail to drain properly, resulting in a wet, irritated, or infected eye.
To help open the tear duct, your doctor may demonstrate a particular massaging method. If massage does not work after a few months, your ophthalmologist may need to access the duct using an instrument.
Remember that a child’s vision may not be hazy, and symptoms may go missed by parents or teachers. Regular eye exams and screenings will help protect your child’s vision.