Most Common Kids’ Eye Problems Parents Should Know

It is critical as a parent to spot if your child is struggling with eye problems. If your child has any symptoms that indicate a problem, it may be time for them to check in with an eye doctor for an eye exam.

There are three common vision issues: Myopia, Hyperopia, and Astigmatism.

Myopia is when a child can’t see objects in the distance clearly, but objects nearby are clear. Your child could display the symptoms for this by squinting, rubbing their eyes, or sitting closer to the TV.

Hyperopia, is the opposite of Myopia. Hyperopia is when a child has a hard time seeing seeing nearby objects, but is able to see objects in the distance clearly. The symptoms for Hyperopia are similar to Myopia, but your child may also complain of headaches.

And lastly Astigmatism. Astigmatism is when your child eye is shaped similarly to a football, whereas it should be more round. This causes blurred vision, and has the same symptoms as Myopia and Hyperopia.

There are two common eye infections that also may play a role in your child eye health one day.

Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is an infection that can be either viral or bacterial, and it is contagious. The symptoms are redness, itching, burning, discharge, crusted lashes, and increased tears. It is commonly treated with eye drops.

Chalazion/Stye are both another uncomfortable infection. A chalazion is a swollen bump on the eyelid, and a stye grows at the base of the eyelid cause by bacteria. A styemis painful and a chalazion is not. It can be treated by repeated use of a warm compress, or your eye doctor can provide treatment.