Children’s eye change rapidly, and problem can occur at any age. That’s why it is important to observe your child’s eyes and to pay attention to how your child acts and what he or she says.
How Your Child's Eyes Appear:
Anything unusually in the way your child's eyes appear can be a sign of a problem. Watch for the following
- Eye that cross or one eye that turns in or out, or up or down.
- One eye that seems different in some way, such as larger or smaller pupil.
- Eyes that look crusty, swollen bloodshot or red-rimmed.
- Any discharge, bleeding, or red bumps on the eyelids.
- A pupil that shows a white rather than a red reflection in a color photograph.
What Your Child Says:
Unusual behavior can sometimes be a sign of an eye problem. Watch your child for any of the following warning signs:
- Closing one or turning or tilting to see things. Squinting to see things in the distance.
- Not seeing things you point out.
- Consistently holding objects close to the face or sitting very close to the TV ( most children do this sometimes).
- Blinking or rubbing one eye lot.
- Running into objects or falling down at night or in places that aren’t well lit.
What Your Child Says:
Once your child is school age, he or she may be able to tell you about eye problems. Listen for mention of the following:
- Not seeing the chalkboard at school.
- Things looking blurry or fuzzy.
- Getting hit in the eye, or getting something in the eye, or getting something in the eye.
- One or both eye hurting, or pain in or around one or both eye.
- Light making the eyes hurt.
Headaches and Dyslexia:
Headaches and Dyslexia (an ability to recognise letters and words) usually are not caused by eye conditions. However, if either is a problem, your child should have an eye exam to rule out eye co ordination or vison problem.
When You See A Problem:
Childhood eye problem don’t go away on their own, but most won’t damage sight if treated early. Take your child to an eye doctor or to your pediatrician or family doctor as soon as you spot a problem, your family doctor can check your child’s eyes at any age.
Preparing Your Child for an Eye Exam:
Your child may be afraid of an eye exam and may not cooperate. You can help be telling your child what to expect:
- There won’t be any shots.
- The doctor may put drops in your eyes. The drops may sting for a few seconds, and your vision may get a little blurry, but this will go away shortly.
- The doctor shines a light in your eyes to see inside them.
- The doctor asks you to name pictures or letters or point to things. You may wear special glasses or sit at a big machine.
Your Role:
Pay attention to your child’s eyes and behavior. Call the doctor if you notice a problem or if your child complains. Have your child’s eyes checked at 6 months, 3 years, 5 years and at least once between the ages of 7 and 18. Correcting vision problems early is the best way to protect your child’s sight.