Children's eyesight.

We talk about "children-s eyesight" as a section of ophthalmology because of the importance for a child's visual development of the early diagnosis of possible eye disorders.

Just as a muscle requires exercise to develop properly, the eye needs to see properly to reach visual maturity.

Given the difficulty children have in expressing themselves, it is often difficult to evaluate their symptoms, so it is necessary to be aware of various child symptoms and behaviour.

Symptoms.
-Squinting: (Strabismus). It is essential to go to the ophthalmologist immediately.
-Reddening: (Conjunctivitis).
-Inclination of the head when looking.
-Closing an eye when looking: Children who close an eye often, especially under sunlight.
-If they go very close to the television, etc.
-If they trip and fall easily.
-School problems.
-Bad headaches and tiredness.

When should you take a child to the ophthalmologist?
-The first check, if the child has not shown symptoms (described above) before, is carried out between the ages of 2 and 3. At this age it is important to diagnose any possible amblyopia (lazy eye).
-The next "crítical" age is before starting school. At about the age of 5, children need a more exhaustive check under cycloplegia.
-Periodic checks will be decided by your ophthalmologist depending on each child's needs.

Attitude of parents.
For good treatment of eyesight problems in childhood, it is essential that the parents have a positive attitude because, as in all pediatric medicine, children alone cannot co-operate in maintaining their health nor can they help correct their problems. The important thing is that parents consult their ophthalmologist for everything relating to their child's eyesight, so they know the problem the child is suffering from, the treatment and the prognosis.