From pink eye to lazy eye: Expert lists the common eye problems in children and their signs

New Delhi: Eye health in children is often overlooked, yet it is important to detect eye problems early enough to ensure healthy development. Most eye conditions, if detected early enough can be managed and treated with satisfactory results, averting impaired vision in the long term. Here are some common eye issues in children and the key signs that can help parents identify them.

Dr Santosh N, Senior Consultant at Apollo Cradle & Children’s Hospital, Jayanagar, Bangalore, while interacting with News9Live, listed the many types of eye problems in children, and their symptoms that can help with diagnosis.

Refractive Errors (Nearsightedness, Farsightedness, Astigmatism)

Refractive errors are common in children. Nearsightedness, or myopia, causes objects that are far away to be blurry; on the other hand, farsightedness or hyperopia causes close-by objects to be blurry to focus. Astigmatism distorts or blurs the vision at all distances because of the irregular shape of the cornea.

Signs to Spot:

Squinting or sitting too close to the TV
Frequent headaches or eye strain
Complaining about blurred vision
Difficulty seeing the board in school

Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)

Amblyopia, more known as lazy eye, occurs when one eye is weaker than the other it has developed poor vision in that particular eye. Permanent loss of vision can happen in the weaker eye if left untreated, and favouring the stronger eye may get used to going alone to the brain.

Signs to Spot:

The visual difference between the two eyes
Eyes that do not appear to be working together well
Lack of depth perception
Covering one eye to see clearly

Strabismus (Crossed Eyes)

Strabismus is a condition whereby the eyes misalign and do not move as a team. It might go inward, outward, upward, or even in any other direction. If not corrected early, it may result in amblyopia.

Signs to Spot:

Eyes that appear to be out of alignment, especially when tired
Tilting the head sideways for better vision
Double vision or problem focusing on one point
Squint that is very prominent

Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

Conjunctivitis is the irritation or infection of the conjunctiva, a clear membrane covering the white of the eye. It is contagious and is the top infection in children of school age.

Signs to Spot:

Redness of one or both eyes
Itchy or gritty feeling in the eyes
Discharge that makes the eyelids stick together
Increased tearing or sensitivity to light

Blocked Tear Ducts

Blocked tear ducts allow tears to pass through inadequately, causing watery eyes and putting one at risk of eye infections. It is common in babies; while most of them go away by themselves, some may need treatment.

Signs to Spot:

Too much tearing, even when not crying
Repeated eye infections
Redness and swelling around the eyes
A small lump near the corner of the eye

Eye Injuries

Children are active and thus sustain eye trauma quite easily. From playground misadventures to contact sports injuries, trauma can be quite serious if not urgently addressed.

Signs to Spot:

Eye pain or discomfort
Cuts or scratches on the eyelid or the surface of the eye
Blood in the white part of the eye
Sensitivity to light, cannot keep an eye open

Keeping an eye on your child’s eye health can help prevent any future challenges. Early detection and treatment of eye problems is the solution to protect your child from eye problems. Parents and guardians must remain vigilant for any signs of vision abnormalities in their children and seek professional advice when needed. Currently, It is recommended to get a general checkup for your children’s eyes at least once in 6 months. Early intervention can lead to a lifetime of healthy sight.