What Are the Most Common Eye Problems in Children?

As children grow, their eyes are developing right alongside them. Good vision is vital for learning, playing, and overall development, which makes it important to identify potential eye problems early. Many children may not even realize something is wrong with their vision, so parents and caregivers should be aware of the most common eye conditions that can affect kids.

Refractive Errors

Refractive errors are among the most common eye issues in children. Nearsightedness (myopia) makes distant objects appear blurry, farsightedness (hyperopia) makes close-up tasks difficult, and astigmatism can cause overall blurry or distorted vision. These conditions are usually corrected with prescription glasses or contact lenses.

Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)

Amblyopia occurs when one eye doesn’t develop proper vision, often because the brain begins to favor the stronger eye. Without treatment, this can lead to long-term vision problems. Early intervention with glasses, eye patches, or other therapies is essential for the best results.

Strabismus (Crossed Eyes)

Strabismus is when the eyes are misaligned, turning inward, outward, upward, or downward. If left untreated, strabismus can lead to amblyopia. Treatment options include glasses, eye exercises, or, in some cases, surgery.

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis, or pink eye, is an infection or irritation of the conjunctiva, the thin layer covering the white of the eye. Symptoms include redness, itching, discharge, and tearing. Pink eye can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or allergies, and treatment depends on the cause.

Eye Injuries

Children are active and prone to accidents, which can sometimes result in eye injuries. Protective eyewear during sports and close monitoring of play can reduce the risk of long-term damage.

Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam at Wiregrass Eyecare of Ozark

Children rely heavily on their vision to learn and grow, so addressing eye problems early is key to preventing long-term issues. Many conditions, when detected early, can be treated successfully to ensure your child has clear, healthy vision.

If you’ve noticed any changes in your child’s vision or want to ensure their eyes are developing properly, the team at Wiregrass Eyecare of Ozark is here to help. Schedule a pediatric eye exam and give your child the best start for lifelong eye health. Contact our office in Ozark, Alabama, by calling (334) 443-1260 today.