As children grow and develop, their visual acuity and clarity can change. Assessing a child's vision accurately and obtaining help and support as needed can help them to become more independent and interact with the world more confidently. Moreover, early intervention can help children to recover from or adapt to eye ailments and prevent serious vision loss.
Strabismus / Amblyopia
If a child's eyes cross or wander past three months of age, she may have a more serious visual problem, cautions the American Academy of Family Physicians, or AAFP. Persistent crossed eyes may indicate strabismus, whereas a wandering eye may indicate amblyopia. Both conditions interfere with stereo vision, whereby a child perceives information with both eyes. Corrective treatments such as glasses and patching may be helpful, though in some cases surgery may be warranted, notes the AAFP website.
Conjunctivitis / Pink Eye
Itchy, red, swollen, or watery eyes may be a sign of conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the conjunctiva, or membrane that covers the eyeball, warns the AAFP. Conjunctivitis may be due to bacterial or viral infection. While the ailment rarely affects eyesight, it should be referred to a physician for assessment and, if necessary, treatment with prescription medications to reduce the discomfort and inflammation.
Cataracts
Cataracts are a primary cause of visual loss and blindness in children, cautions the American Academy of Pediatrics, or AAP. Cataracts are a clouding of the lens tissue within the eye that in children can prevent proper vision development. Cataracts may occur due to genetic predisposition, direct trauma to the eye, or as a result of viral infection. In some cases, cataracts may even be present at birth. Surgery and visual rehabilitation can help children to recover from this condition.
Glaucoma
Prolonged eye pain or pressure, or excessive tearing or eye blinking, may be a sign of glaucoma, notes the AAP. Glaucoma is a condition involving changes in fluid levels within the eye and typically develops later in life. Without intervention, prolonged pressure on the eye can damage the optic nerve, leading to permanent vision loss. Surgical treatment is necessary to drain the fluid and reduce the pressure. Moreover, children will need lifelong monitoring to ensure their eyes are healthy and working properly, warns the AAP.
