Pediatrics
What Is Pediatric Care?
Eye conditions and visual impairments can develop at any stage of life. Research indicates that one in four children may experience vision issues. Following the American Optometric Association’s (AOA) guidance, children should undergo their initial eye examination by six months old with a follow-up exam before starting school.
Early detection and treatment of eye issues are crucial for promoting optimal visual health in your child. Our team proudly offers pediatric eye care services to evaluate and treat eye conditions for even the youngest of patients. For a pediatric eye evaluation near you, contact IC Laser Eye Care at one of our convenient locations in Bensalem, PA, Philadelphia, PA, or Hamilton, NJ, or Suburban Eye Associates in Huntingdon Valley, PA.
How Are Pediatric Exams Performed?
Pediatric eye exams are similar to adult eye exams, focusing on assessing the eye’s anatomy and vision sharpness. Like in adult exams, we examine the eyes and eyelids of your child, evaluate various muscle movements, and check their eye alignment, among other tests. These efficient and straightforward evaluations enable our specialists to screen for prevalent eye issues, including lazy eye, congenital glaucoma, and various infections. If a problem is detected, we will explore appropriate treatment options and create a custom therapy plan to address your child’s specific needs. Based on the testing results, appointments for treatment or your child’s next routine checkup will be scheduled.
What Are the Benefits of A Pediatric Exam?
At IC Laser Eye Care and Suburban Eye Associates, a pediatric eye exam provides numerous advantages for your child, such as:
- Enhancing visual acuity
- Correcting vision issues
- Identifying vision problems
- Diagnosing medical eye conditions (lazy eye, genetic diseases, etc.)
- Improving learning and social interactions
- Helping prevent accidents or injuries
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should I first bring my child to an eye specialist if I notice something wrong?
If you notice anything unusual with your child’s eyes, like excessive squinting, frequent eye rubbing, or one eye turning inward or outward, it’s a good idea to see an eye specialist right away, no matter their age. Pediatric ophthalmologists are trained to evaluate even newborns and infants. Early intervention can make a big difference in preventing long-term vision issues. Trust your instincts as a parent; if something feels off, it’s always better to be cautious and have it checked.
How can I tell if my child has a vision problem if they don't complain?
Many young children don’t even realize their vision is off because they simply don’t know any different. Signs can be subtle. For instance, they might tilt their head when looking at things, sit very close to the TV, or seem clumsy. Sometimes behavioral issues in school can even stem from undiagnosed vision problems. Watching for these small clues and scheduling regular eye screenings are the best ways to catch problems early.
What should I do if my child refuses to wear their glasses?
First off, don’t panic; it’s a common hurdle. Making glasses part of your child’s normal daily routine, offering lots of praise, and letting them pick frames they love can make a huge difference. Sometimes it also helps to explain how the glasses will help them do things they enjoy, like playing sports or reading books more easily. If problems persist, talk to your eye doctor; sometimes, slight adjustments to the prescription or frame can resolve discomfort issues.
Compassionate Care for the Whole Family
Maintaining vision health is essential regardless of age, as eye diseases and issues can develop unexpectedly at any time. Securing your child’s visual health is vital for their educational achievements, participation in hobbies and sports, and general quality of life. Our team is passionate about caring for even our youngest patients, striving to make their visits engaging and enjoyable. To schedule a pediatric eye examination, contact a practice location near you today.
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