Children’s vulnerability and the need for special eye care
Kids, especially under the age of 12, are still in their formative years. Their physiology is undergoing developmental changes which could make them susceptible to impairments or health problems that could last well into the late stage of adulthood. And some of the potential health issues that children in their formative years are vulnerable to are eye problems.
Some of the 3 most common pediatric eye problems:
Indeed, some eye problems occur among kids which include amblyopia, conjunctivitis, and uveitis. If left untreated by a qualified pediatric optometrist, these eye problems could lead to irreparable damage to the eyes as the child grows up. But with early diagnosis and careful treatment, proper eye health can be restored.
Reduced vision with amblyopia
One of the more debilitating eye problems that a child could have is amblyopia, also known as “lazy eye.” Its symptoms include vision loss which is caused by lack of adequate use during the early stages of child development. This can also be the result of a misalignment of the eyes, or a difference in the quality of image perceived by the two eyes which renders the weaker eye useless as the problem progresses.
With the help of a qualified children’s eye doctor, amblyopia can be treated if the underlying causes have been determined at their early stages. Treatments include prescribing glasses that help the weaker eye focus more efficiently. Surgery may also be performed to help correct the eye muscles if non-surgical means are no longer possible.
Conjunctivitis – an irritating eye infection
Kids are susceptible to infection, and one of the infections that commonly affects them is conjunctivitis, more commonly known as “pink eye.” It is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the mucous membrane that lines the white part of the eyeball, which also serves as a crucial protective layer. Conjunctivitis is caused by either a viral or bacterial infection. It may also occur as a reaction to allergens or chemical irritants.
If conjunctivitis occurs, it is highly recommended to see a pediatric eye doctor right away. The doctor may prescribe antibiotics or other forms of medications for treatment. And because conjunctivitis makes the eyes more sensitive to light, tinted glass, such as those being offered at our optical shop in Livingston, may also be recommended to help relieve discomfort.
Inflamed eyes with uveitis
Much like conjunctivitis, uveitis is an inflammation of one of both eyes. It occurs in the uvea, the layer that helps provide nutrients to the eyes. It is characterized by redness, pain, sensitivity to light, or decreased or blurry vision. But unlike conjunctivitis, the cause of uveitis is unknown. It could be a result of an infection, inflammatory disorders that affect surrounding body parts, or eye injury.
Uveitis is a complex eye disorder which requires immediate attention of a qualified children’s ophthalmologist. A range of tests and treatments may be performed to relieve discomfort and prevent further damage that could permanently impair the child’s vision.
The discomfort caused by these eye disorders can be treated with a proper set of glasses which the ophthalmologists at our optical shop in Livingston can provide.
Contact Pediatric Eye Associates today to learn more about our expert pediatric eye care.
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
