As a parent, it is important to be aware of common vision problems that can occur in children. Early detection and treatment of vision problems can prevent further complications and improve the child’s quality of life. Dr. Neeraj Gupta, a renowned ophthalmologist at Dr Bakshi Gupta Eye Care Centre, explains the most common vision problems in children and how to treat them.
Myopia (Nearsightedness)
- Myopia is a common vision problem in which distant objects appear blurry, but near objects are clear. It occurs when the eyeball is too long or the cornea is too curved. Myopia can be detected through a comprehensive eye exam, including computerized vision testing. Treatment options for myopia include eyeglasses, contact lenses, and refractive surgery.
Hyperopia (Farsightedness)
- Hyperopia is a vision problem in which close objects appear blurry, but distant objects are clear. It occurs when the eyeball is too short or the cornea is too flat. Hyperopia can also be detected through a comprehensive eye exam. Treatment options for hyperopia include eyeglasses, contact lenses, and refractive surgery.
Astigmatism
- Astigmatism is a vision problem in which objects appear distorted or blurry at any distance. It occurs when the cornea or lens is irregularly shaped. Astigmatism can be detected through a comprehensive eye exam, including computerized vision testing. Treatment options for astigmatism include eyeglasses, contact lenses, and refractive surgery.
Strabismus (Crossed Eyes)
- Strabismus is a vision problem in which the eyes do not align properly. One eye may turn inward, outward, upward, or downward while the other eye remains straight. Strabismus can cause double vision and affect depth perception. It can also lead to amblyopia (lazy eye) if left untreated. Treatment options for strabismus include eyeglasses, vision therapy, and surgery.
Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)
- Amblyopia is a vision problem in which one eye does not develop properly, causing it to have weaker vision than the other eye. It can occur due to a high degree of refractive error, strabismus, or other eye conditions. Amblyopia can be detected through a comprehensive eye exam. Treatment options for amblyopia include eyeglasses, patching, and vision therapy.
Color Blindness
- Color blindness is a vision problem in which the ability to distinguish colors is impaired. It occurs when the cones in the retina do not function properly. Color blindness can be detected through a color vision test. Unfortunately, there is no cure for color blindness, but special lenses or glasses can sometimes enhance color vision.
If you suspect that your child may have a vision problem, schedule a comprehensive eye exam with Dr. Neeraj Gupta at Dr Bakshi Gupta Eye Care Centre. Their hospital is full NABH accredited and provides computerized vision testing, IOP/NCT, cataract surgery (phaco/laser), glaucoma RX, squint RX, pterygium surgery, entropion/ectropion surgery, foreign body removal, YAG CAP/PI, specs removal, diabetic retinopathy RX, retina clinic services, and more. They are also empanelled with Ayushman Bharat, Haryana Govt, Himachal Govt, and Punjab Govt. For more information, visit their website at https://www.guptaeyeanddentalcare.com/ or call them at 098885 72660. Remember, early detection and treatment of vision problems can improve your child’s quality of life.