Children
Table of Contents
Why should your child see an eye doctor?
At the time of birth a child’s vision is not fully developed. Major changes take place in the first few years of life. Significant eye problems in very young children are relatively uncommon (except for crossed eyes) but, when present, they must be treated very early in life. Otherwise, vision does not develop in the problem eye. The loss of sight in that eye is permanent and cannot be corrected with glasses (“lazy eye”).
When should your child's eyes be examined?
Between 3 and 6 months of age. A follow up exam by age 3 years is prudent. Pediatricians often do these early exams.
Examination by an eye doctor is advisable just before the child begins school and whenever you suspect there is a vision problem, particularly if the child is struggling with schoolwork.
How can you tell if your infant has an eye problem?
- Poor focus on objects after 3 months of age.
- Eyes are not straight.
- An eyelid droops.
- Eyes water with overflow tearing.
- There is a family history of serious eye problems.
What are the clues that your child may have a vision problem?
- The eye is red, with or without discharge.
- The child squints to read or see small objects.
- Excessive blinking.
- Complaints of blurred distance vision.
- Complaints of headaches.
- Complaints of double vision.
