Eye Checkups Are Important For Kids

Kids are burdened today with online schools because of the COVID -19 pandemic, and the eyes are taking toll of this digital strain. How can parents take care of their child's eyes, during heavy online schooling? Let's find out from our Pediatric Expert Dr Manju Bhate from L.V.Prasad Eye Institute Hyderabad India.

At a time when learning is being increasingly facilitated through online mode, it becomes very important that we take proper care of our eyes. Prompt and timely prevention of eye problems helps optimize vision and thereby reap the benefits thereof.

What arethecommon eye problems in kids?

Refractive errors are common in children (myopia or astigmatism being commoner than hyperopia). In addition, allergic conjunctivitis is fairly common and usually flares up seasonally.

When do children need to get their eyes checked?

Ideally, a routine check when they are in preschool or kindergarten (KG) i.e between 3-4 years of age helps in relatively early detection of vision-related problems. Having said that if any eye problem is detected by the parent or the pediatrician they should consult a paediatric ophthalmologist immediately.

How do we care for our eyes?

Reading/writing should be done in a well-illuminated room, limited screen time (big screen TV), and no mobile until teenage years – that too judicious use thereafter.

What are pointers to suspect an eye problem in kids?

There can be a variety of eye problems in a child, things like infections or conjunctivitis are obvious to pick up. Vision problems can be difficult to pick until the child reports or the teacher picks up. Very often the child may hold objects or books too close, rub eyes often, typically looks through the corner of his eyes(may turn the head) while viewing the television.

Role of parents /teachers in facilitating early detection of eye problems?

This is very important. The parents and teachers should be vigilant to the pointers I’ve just mentioned above. Vision screening at the slightest suspicion is advisable.

Do dietary modifications help prevent any eye problems?

Not unless the child is malnourished. A balanced and healthy diet is adequate. There are no special “foods for eyes”. There is no need for additional supplements if the child is not nutritionally deprived.

Any rise in theincidence of eye problems during COVID 10 illness?

There has been an increase in screen time in children, especially school going and children and families do report with eye strain as an indirect effect of the lockdowns we have had to face in this pandemic. We at L.V. Prasad Eye Institute have recommended guidelines for screen time for children of different age groups and safe and healthy practices for parents and teachers to follow.

General guidelines for kids to prevent eye infections.

It depends on which kind of infection. Probably, it is best to avoid contact with anyone who has an eye infection like viral conjunctivitis.

Inputs from:

Dr Manju Bhate MBBS DNB (Ophthalmology)

Fellowship in Paediatric Ophthalmology Sydney Australia

Consultant L.V. Prasad Eye Institute Hyderabad India.