Signs of Possible Eye Trouble in Children

It is possible for your child to have a serious vision problem without your being aware of it. Any concern about abnormalities in the appearance of the eyes or vision should be investigated. If you have any questions about your child's vision, see an eye doctor. In any case, start early to provide your child with a regular schedule of professional eye exams.

Signs of possible eye trouble in children include:

Behavior

· Rubs eyes excessively

· Shuts or covers one eye

· Tilts or thrusts head forward

· Has difficulty with reading or other close-up work

· Holds objects close to eyes

· Blinks more than usual or is irritable when doing close-up work

· Is unable to see distant things clearly

· Squints eyelids together or frowns

Appearance

· Crossed or misaligned eyes

· Red-rimmed, encrusted or swollen eyelids

· Inflamed or watery eyes

· Recurring styes (infections) on eyelids

· Color photos of eyes show white reflection instead of typical red or no reflection

Complaints

· Eyes itch, burn or feel scratchy

· Cannot see well

· Dizziness, headaches or nausea following close-up work

· Blurred or double vision

If a child exhibits one or more of these signs, please seek professional eye care. Rx Optical’s eye care professionals recommend that children have their first eye exam at age 3 (unless visual problems, such as a lack of hand-eye coordination, are sensed earlier) and every year after that until age 16.  Regular eye exams are important since some eye problems have no signs or symptoms.

For more information about children's eye health and safety, call Rx Optical’s Student Development Coordinator at 1-800-Rx-Cares or visit www.preventblindness.org.