Optician Highlights Seven Signs of Eye Problems in Children

Rising screen time among children is leading to increased concerns about eye health. An optician from the United Kingdom has identified seven warning signs that parents should watch for, which could indicate potential vision problems in their children.

According to Khuram Sarwar, an optician at Feel Good Contacts, there is a growing trend of eye-related issues among young people, particularly conditions like myopia (short-sightedness) and digital eye strain. The situation has become more pressing as children return to school this autumn after an extended period of screen usage. Bristol Live reports that undiagnosed eye conditions can significantly hamper a child’s academic performance and overall well-being.

To combat these issues, Sarwar emphasizes the importance of establishing a good routine. “Before school starts for the autumn term, it’s important to establish a good bedtime routine that doesn’t include screen time,” he advises. He warns that the blue light emitted from screens can lead to symptoms such as eye strain, headaches, and disrupted sleep patterns.

Recognizing the signs early can help parents make informed decisions about their children’s eye health. Here are the seven key indicators that may suggest a child is experiencing vision difficulties:

Identifying Warning Signs of Vision Issues

1. **Reading Struggles**: Children may exhibit difficulties when reading, such as taking longer than usual, making frequent errors, or skipping words. They might hold books unusually close or far from their faces, which can also indicate conditions like dyslexia.

2. **Constant Squinting**: If a child squints to see better or avoids reading, particularly from a distance, this may point to vision problems. They may also tilt their heads or use peripheral vision to focus on objects.

3. **Pupil Discoloration**: A white or greyish-white appearance in the pupil can be alarming and may indicate serious conditions such as cataracts, retinoblastoma (a form of eye cancer), or uveitis.

4. **Misaligned Eyes**: Misalignment, where one or both eyes appear crossed or do not focus together, can affect visual acuity. While it is normal for infants up to four months to have crossed eyes, persistent misalignment may indicate strabismus or amblyopia.

5. **Rapid Eye Movement**: Fluttering or excessive movement of the eyes can hinder hand-eye coordination, making activities such as writing or sports challenging. Children may struggle to maintain focus on objects or while reading.

6. **Chronic Eye Discomfort**: Symptoms such as persistent watering, discharge, itchiness, or redness are often signs of eye infections. Children may frequently rub their eyes in an attempt to relieve discomfort.

7. **Light Sensitivity**: Sensitivity to light can be indicative of various conditions, including cataracts and even epilepsy. Children might often complain of headaches in bright environments.

It is crucial for parents to remain vigilant about these symptoms, particularly as children face increased exposure to screens. By recognizing these warning signs and seeking professional advice when necessary, parents can help ensure their children maintain healthy eyesight and achieve their best in school and beyond.