Common eye problems in kids

Young children probably won’t report a vision problem to mum or dad. That’s because they assume their vision is normal.

So, as parents, we need to be on the look-out for tell-tale signs that something might be up: watery or red eyes; frequent blinking, rubbing or squinting; and complaints about a sore head.

What might be wrong with your child’s vision?

Myopia

Myopia – or near-sightedness – is when a child can’t see objects in the distance clearly, while those up close are clear. Symptoms might include squinting or eye rubbing – or sitting close to the TV.  According to the Australia and New Zealand Child Myopia Report the prevalence of myopia in the past couple of years can be attributed to children spending more time indoors during COVID-19. This was due to school closures and cancelled sports which saw kids spending extended periods of time watching TV or playing on electronic devices and less time outdoors. Evidence is growing to support that time spent outdoors may have a protective effect on the development of myopia. The most common treatment is with glasses, or refractive surgery for adults. 

Hyperopia

More commonly known as far-sightedness, this vision problem is when a child can see objects in the distance clearly, while those up close are not clear. A young child may show signs of hyperopia by squinting or rubbing his or her eyes. The condition occurs when the eyeball is too short, or when the cornea or lens are abnormally shaped. Vision can usually be corrected with glasses.

Astigmatism

If the cornea (the ‘window’ at the front of the eye) is not curved evenly, it will cause uneven blurring ​​or distorted vision at all distances. Kids with this condition are likely to have headaches, tire easily and find it difficult to concentrate because their eyes are constantly trying to focus without success. Vision can be corrected with glasses, but there may still be difficulties in judging distance.

What about eye infections?

Conjunctivitis

You’ll know if your little one has conjunctivitis because of the common signs of a yellow-green discharge and crusted eyelashes. Other symptoms of the viral or bacterial infection include redness, itching, burning and excessive tears. It’s highly contagious and your child will need to have fully recovered before returning to day-care or school. Bacterial conjunctivitis is often treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointment – unfortunately there’s no treatment for the viral condition, which will usually run its course over two to three weeks. You should seek early medical advice if:

• the eyes are not improving after gentle bathing with warm water
• there is severe pain or any problems with vision
• swelling or redness around the eyes increases
• there are any white spots on the cornea
• your child is unwell or you have any other concerns.

Chalazion or stye

A chalazion is commonly called a stye – but technically the two are different. A chalazion is a swollen bump on the eyelid, while a stye grows at the base of the eyelid (and is caused by a bacterial infection). A stye is really painful, but a chalazion is just a big lump that isn’t painful. Both conditions can usually be treated at home with a warm washer held against the eyelid for a few minutes, up to 20 times per day. Usually most lumps will expand and release the contents. If that doesn’t happen (or the lump continues to enlarge or becomes more painful) you need to seek advice.

Our eyesight is precious and should be protected. If you have any concerns about your children’s vision or eye health, see your doctor or optometrist.