Kids’ eyes are constantly taking in the world around them, learning, and growing. But sometimes, they can run into trouble. Eye conditions in children are more common than you might think. Here are some common eye issues that can affect little ones.
 

Lazy Eye (Amblyopia)

Lazy eye is when one eye does not develop good vision, so the brain starts ignoring it. This can happen if one eye is much weaker than the other or if the eyes do not line up properly. Unfortunately, kids with this condition often do not realize anything is wrong. That is why regular eye checkups are important. Catching lazy eye early makes it easier to treat.
 

Crossed Eyes (Strabismus)

This is when the eyes do not team up to look at the same thing at the same time. One eye might turn in, out, up, or down, while the other stays straight. This can lead to problems with depth perception. Treatment can include special glasses, eye patches, or sometimes surgery.
 

Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)

Pink eye spreads fast, especially in schools and daycares. The white part of the eye turns pink or red, and there is often discharge. It can stem from viruses, bacteria, or allergies. Viral pink eye usually clears up on its own, but bacterial pink eye needs antibiotic eye drops. The key is keeping those little hands clean and away from the eyes.
 

Refractive Errors

This is a fancy way of saying your child might need glasses. There are three main types:
 

·       Nearsightedness (Myopia) — Kids can see things up close but struggle with distant objects.

·       Farsightedness (Hyperopia) — Distant vision is clear, but close-up objects are blurry.

·       Astigmatism — This makes everything a bit blurry due to an oddly shaped cornea.
 

Color Blindness

Imagine not being able to tell the difference between red and green traffic lights. That is what some color-blind kids deal with. While there is no cure, most kids adapt well. They might need help with color-coded school materials or choosing matching clothes.
 

Ptosis (Droopy Eyelid)

This is when one or both eyelids hang lower than they should. It can look like the child is always sleepy on one side. If it is severe, it can block vision and lead to lazy eye. Mild cases might not need treatment, but more severe ones might require surgery to lift the eyelid.
 

Blocked Tear Ducts

Babies are born with tear ducts that are not fully developed. Sometimes, these ducts stay blocked, causing watery eyes and crusty eyelashes. It can look like the baby is always crying, even when they are happy. Most of the time, this clears up by the baby’s first birthday. If not, a simple procedure can open up those ducts.
 

Eye Injuries

Kids are curious and active, which sometimes leads to eye injuries. From pokes and scratches to chemical splashes, these injuries can be scary. Always take eye injuries seriously. If your little one gets something in their eye, do not let them rub it. Flush it with clean water and see a doctor if it does not clear up quickly.
 

Retinoblastoma

This is the most common eye cancer that develops in young children. It can cause a white glow in the eye in photos instead of the usual red-eye effect. If caught early, it is very treatable. That is why regular eye checkups are so important, even for babies.
 

Kids might not always tell you when they are having trouble seeing. Watch for squinting, holding books close to their face, or sitting too close to the TV. Regular eye exams can catch many of these conditions early. With the right care, most kids with eye conditions can see clearly and enjoy all the wonderful sights of childhood.
 

For more on pediatric eye care, visit SPECTACLES at our Jackson, Mississippi, office. Call 601-398-4662 to schedule an appointment today.

 

https://www.optometrists.org/childrens-vision/guide-to-pediatric-eye-conditions/7-common-pediatric-eye-conditions/
 

https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/common-childhood-diseases-conditions