Does your toddler need glasses?

Good vision is a must for all growing kids especially as their 80-85 % learning is dependent on their vision. This need is enhanced as they start schooling. Parents must be cautious and on look out for early signs & symptoms

Physical Signs 

1. One or both eyelids droop 
2. Cornea is showing white opacity
3. Some white reflex is seen in any of the eye
4. Iris of one or both eyes appears cloudy 
5. Excessive tearing in one or both eyes 
6. Sensitivity to light, excessive blinking in bright light 
7. Persistent redness in or around the eye(s) 
8. Swelling or discharge from the eye(s) 

Behavioural Signs 

1. Rubs eyes frequently 
2. Consistently sits too close to the TV 
3. Holds items close to face to read 
4. Squinting to see things close up or at a distance 
5. Tilts head to one side to see better 
6. Closes one eye to read, watch TV, or see better 

If the child is showing any of the above symptoms take him for a complete eye check-up.

When to go for the first eye checkup? 

The general wisdom is that all children should have their eyes examined prior to beginning primary school. Identifying vision problems early can mean avoiding possible difficulties in the classroom. 

However, if vision problems run in the family, it's probably wise to have your child's vision checked by age 3, sooner if you notice physical problems like squint, seeing less in one eye, or if she/he has difficulty focusing on and following your finger. 

How often should one go?

School-aged children should get their eyes examined every two years. If your child wears glasses they should have their eyes checked annually to monitor any changes in their vision. If there are any complains in vision, redness, watering, stickiness, headaches then it’s time to meet the eye specialist.

Whom to see

Optometrist?  Ophthalmologist? Optician? It can be a little confusing knowing whom to see, especially for your child's first eye exam. Generally, you should choose an eye care professional based on the type of care your child needs. 

Optician: This is an eye-care professional who has been trained to make and fit eyeglasses and to instruct clients in the use of eyewear and contact lenses. They are not eye doctors and do not perform eye exams, nor do they prescribe glasses or contact lenses. 

Optometrist: Also known as a Doctor of Optometry (O.D.), this is a licensed eye care professional who has been trained to diagnose and treat vision problems. They can perform eye exams, diagnose and treat primary eye conditions, and prescribe glasses and contact lenses. Optometrists must receive four years of training and be licensed in order to practice. Optometrists sometimes work in optical stores run by opticians. 

Ophthalmologist: That word is a mouthful, but basically, this is a physician who specializes in medical and surgical eye care. Typically, an ophthalmologist completes four and half years of medical school, one year of internship and follows that up with specialized training in surgeries of the eye and general eye and vision care. Like an optometrist, they can examine the eyes, diagnose and treat eye conditions, and prescribe glasses, and contact lenses; however, the ophthalmologist can also perform simple and complex eye surgeries. 

Choose an eye specialist, if available in vicinity. Keep some time aside as a child’s eye examination may require dilatation with eye drops.

Kid’s with special needs too require a thorough eye examination. They can be dealt gently & a good correction can work wonders for them as they are unable to complain about eye pain, headaches and mostly may present with irritable behaviour.