As a parent, you want your child to grow up healthy and happy. Part of ensuring their well-being involves ensuring their vision is good. While most parents focus on the overall health of their children, they often overlook the importance of regular eye checkups of their little ones. According to research, one in every four children has an undiagnosed vision problem, which makes it imperative that the parent should not miss out on any vision related symptoms which the child might have.
Common Pediatric Eye Problems
Pediatric eye problems can cause a range of vision issues, from nearsightedness to blurred vision. Some of the most common pediatric eye problems include:
Myopia: Nearsightedness is a condition where a child can see objects clearly when they are near but struggles to see objects in the distance.
Hyperopia: Farsightedness is a condition where a child can see distant objects clearly but has trouble seeing objects that are close.
Amblyopia: Also known as lazy eye, amblyopia occurs when one eye has poor vision due to a lack of use.
Diplopia: This condition causes double vision, making objects appear in two different places.
Astigmatism: This condition results in blurry vision and is caused by an uneven curvature of the cornea and/or lens.
Pediatric cataract: This condition causes clouding or opacity of the lens, leading to poor vision.
Excessive tearing: This condition is caused by the blockage of the tear drainage system, leading to watery eyes.
Cortical visual impairment: This condition results in vision problems due to abnormalities in the visual center of the brain.
Pediatric glaucoma: This rare condition occurs due to increased pressure within the eye and can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly.
Signs and Symptoms of Pediatric Eye Problems
The signs and symptoms of pediatric eye problems can vary, but some of the most common ones include:
- Frequent blinking or rubbing of the eyes
- Tilting of the head to one side
- Holding objects too close to their eyes
- Squinting
- Difficulty with reading
- Short attention span
- Frequent headaches
- Untreated Pediatric Eye Problems
It is important to seek medical attention for pediatric vision issues. If left untreated, some conditions such as amblyopia can cause permanent vision loss. Early detection and treatment of these conditions are essential for ensuring your child’s optimal eye health.
Diagnosis of Pediatric Eye Problems
Diagnosing pediatric eye problems involves discussing the signs and symptoms with your doctor or pediatric eye specialist and undergoing a full eye examination. Eye tests for children can start as early as six months of age and should be repeated regularly as they grow in case of any doubt.
Treatment of Pediatric Eye Problems
The treatment of pediatric eye problems will depend on the underlying cause of the condition. The first line of treatment is usually nonsurgical, which includes:
- Topical (eye drops)
- Systemic therapy (oral medication)
- Placement of eye patches
- Prescription for eyeglasses/contact lenses
In some cases, surgery may be required to correct the problem. Common surgical treatments for pediatric eye problems include:
- Strabismus surgery to correct eye misalignment
- Blocked tear duct surgery
- Pediatric cataract removal
- Eyelid cyst excision
- Drooping eyelid surgery
Choosing the Right Pediatric Eye Specialist/Ophthalmologist
When choosing a pediatric eye specialist/ophthalmologist in Dubai, it is important to select someone who is experienced in dealing with children. Look for a specialist who can create a child-friendly environment and who has the patience and expertise to make your child comfortable during the entire vision therapy process.
Conclusion
As a parent in Dubai, you must be aware of the common pediatric eye problems, their signs and symptoms, and the importance of seeking prompt diagnosis and treatment from a qualified pediatric eye doctor to ensure your child’s healthy vision for years to come. Regular eye exams are essential for ensuring the optimal eye health of your child.
Consult the top Pediatric Ophthalmologist in Dubai – Dr. Walid Abdalla. Call us to book an appointment on +971 4 874 3399 or reach us on WhatsApp at +971 55 407 2911.
