As parents, we want our children to be happy and healthy, but did you know good vision plays a huge role in both? Vision problems in children can affect their learning, development, and overall well-being.
This guide will help you understand common vision problems in children, recognize their symptoms, and to know when to seek professional help from Twinsburg Eye Associates.
Common Vision Issues in Children
Myopia
Myopia (nearsightedness) is a prevalent vision problem in children. It occurs when they can see nearby objects clearly, but distant objects appear blurry. Your child may squint or hold books and screens close to their eyes while reading or watching TV. As a result, they may have difficulty seeing the board in school or recognizing people from afar.
Hyperopia
Hyperopia (farsightedness) is another common vision issue in children. With hyperopia, children can see distant objects clearly, but they might struggle with nearby objects, especially when reading or doing close-up tasks. Children with hyperopia may experience eye strain, headaches, or fatigue during activities that require focusing on nearby objects.
Astigmatism
Astigmatism is a vision condition that results in blurry or distorted vision, both at a distance and up close. This occurs due to an irregular shape of the cornea or lens in the eye. Children with astigmatism may complain of difficulty seeing clearly or experience eye discomfort.
Amblyopia
Amblyopia (lazy eye) is a condition in which one eye doesn't develop normal vision during childhood. The brain may start to favor the stronger eye, leading to reduced vision in the weaker eye. Children with amblyopia might exhibit a wandering eye or have difficulty with depth perception.
Strabismus
Strabismus (crossed eyes) refers to the misalignment of the eyes, where one or both eyes may turn inward, outward, upward, or downward. This condition can lead to double vision and eye strain. It's essential to address strabismus early, as it can also cause amblyopia if left untreated.
When to Seek Professional Help at Twinsburg Eye Associates
Early detection of vision problems is crucial for successful treatment. It's essential to seek professional help from an optometrist if you notice any of the following signs or symptoms in your child:
- Frequent squinting or rubbing of eyes.
- Complaints of headaches or eye strain, especially during or after reading or screen time.
- Holding books or objects unusually close to the face while reading or writing.
- Persistent eye watering or redness.
- Frequent tilting of the head to one side.
- Avoiding activities that require good vision, such as drawing or playing sports.
- Frequently bumping into things or showing signs of poor coordination.
- An eye turning inward or outward.
As parents, we can play a vital role in ensuring our children's visual health. By being attentive to their vision and recognizing common vision problems, we can help them get the care they need early on. Regular eye exams at Twinsburg Eye Associates are recommended, even if no issues are apparent, to catch potential problems early. Remember, early intervention and proper eye care can make a significant difference in your child's visual health and future.
Note: Friday is reserved for emergency appointments only.