Early Childhood Eye Problems

Strabismus

Is commonly known as crossed or wall eyes.  This is when, relative to each other, one eye is turned too far in or out.  Sometimes, in the first few months of life, a babies eye may cross occasionally, but when an eye is constantly turned it should be examined by an Optometrist.  This problem can usually be helped.

Amblyopia

Is commonly known as lazy eye.  This condition occurs when normal vision does not develop in one eye because the ‘lazy eye’ sends a poor message to the brain.  This can usually be helped with glasses, eye drops or a patch.  The patch is usually put over the stronger eye, but may sometimes be placed over the weaker eye.

Refractive Errors

Like any other part of the body, the eye grows, works, tires and ages.  It can be injured.  It can become diseased.  However, most vision problems are not diseases, but refractive errors.  These are minor flaws in the way the eye is built that cause it to focus incorrectly.

Myopia

Is also called shortsightedness.  Someone with this condition will see nearby objects more clearly than objects far away.  It occurs when the eyeball is too long or the cornea is too rounded and light is focused in front of the retina instead of directly on it.  Glasses or contact lenses can correct the problem.

Please also be aware that seeing a white pupil in a child is an important call to action.  It is very important to take these children straight to the Optometrist or doctor.