Is your child’s eyesight weak? How can you know when they are too young to recognize the problem themselves? Children usually don’t report such issues because they think it’s the normal way that eyes work. So, you must be the one to identify this issue. This article lists all the symptoms related to weak eyesight in toddlers and children, along with the preventative measures that parents can take to prevent further damage.
Weak eyesight among kids is a common issue these days due to genetics or the increased use of digital devices like tablets and phones. You have probably seen 3 to 6 months old babies watching cartoons while eating or before sleeping; this can predispose them to have weak eyesight later on in life. This increased screen time in children has drastically increased the issue of weak eyesight in kids.
Symptoms of Weak Eyesight in Toddlers and Kids
If your child has been complaining about having any of the signs and symptoms of weak eyesight given below, then you should get their eyes tested by an Eye Specialist immediately.
1. Squinting
Does your kid often squint while reading or watching television? If they do, then they are probably trying to increase their focus to see more clearly. This is a sign of refractive errors in the eyes, which means your kid might need glasses. You can also ask their school teacher whether your child has reported any problems seeing the board clearly or about the difficulties while reading or writing sessions. As a result, you’ll gain a better understanding of your child’s habits.
2. Watching TV or Digital Devices too Closely
When your child sits close to the TV or holds books or tablets close to their face to see, they may be short-sighted (myopic). If they have always had this type of vision or gradual, they may not know how to communicate this issue with you. When myopia is not treated, it can worsen, so it is important to see an eye doctor as soon as possible.
3. Complaining about Eye pain or Headache
When someone has weak eyesight, it is usually accompanied by regular headaches or pain in the eyes. This pain occurs when the eye muscles that tired from focusing too hard on images and objects. This pressure on the eyes is called eye fatigue and can also lead to headaches. These are common symptoms of refractive eye errors.
4. Covering One Eye
Children who cover one eye to help them focus are likely to have very poor vision in that eye – so poor that it is easier for them to ignore its signals entirely than to try to see with both eyes. Again, this can be a sign of double vision, but it can progress to severe lazy eyes if left untreated. It can, however, be effectively treated by putting a patch over the stronger eye, forcing the weaker one to work harder and thus become stronger.
5. Mismatched Eyes
If you notice that your child’s eyes aren’t always looking in the same direction, this could signify strabismus. If not treated, it can progress to amblyopia (lazy eye) and result in poor eyesight in the affected eye. Any vision loss in the weaker eye after 9 or 10 is often permanent, so early detection and treatment are critical.
6. Rubbing Eyes
If your child often rubs their eyes, it could be a sign of eye strain caused by focusing their vision. Even though it is common for kids to rub their eyes when they are tired and sleepy, it is still better to take them for an eye exam.
7. Teary or Red Eyes
Eye strain or eye fatigue caused due to improper vision often leads to excessive tears in the eyes and sometimes redness. These both are signs of impaired eye function and must be taken seriously.
8. Distraction while Studying
When a child is experiencing eye problems, they usually avoid focusing on one thing for too long as it causes unease and pain in the eyes. Due to this, it might seem that they are distracted while doing school or homework. You should consider asking them if they face any difficulties because children don’t talk about such issues themselves.
Consulting an Eye Specialist
After noticing any of these signs and symptoms in your child, you must immediately book an eye exam. You can go to a General Physician, and if they find any issues, they recommend you to visit an ophthalmologist. You can now consult with the best Eye Specialists in your city.
FAQs
1. How do I know if my child has vision problems?
You can start by asking them about having any difficulties reading, writing, or watching TV and other gadgets. It is also essential to notice the symptoms of weak eyesight given above.
2. How can I improve my child’s eyesight naturally?
You can improve your child’s eyesight by reducing screen time, giving them a healthy diet, taking them outside to play a game, and getting regular eye checkups.
3. What is the cause of sudden blurry vision in a child?
A sudden blurry vision in children can indicate eyesight issues. Getting professional help is recommended in this case.
4. How do you check a toddler’s vision?
You can take your toddler to an eye specialist who will perform tests to check their eyesight.
Book an appointment now to answer all your queries. You can book an appointment with the Top eye specialists/ophthalmologists in Pakistan through Marham by calling the Marham helpline: 0311-1222398 or by online booking facility through the website or Marham mobile app.
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