| Check-Up: Keep baby’s eyes healthy |
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Even if your child has normal vision, there are some common practices to ensure good eye health. The best way to prevent an eye infection that could lead to a worse eye condition is to make sure your child washes his or her hands. Good hygiene is the number one way to prevent eye problems. Wearing sunglasses and monitoring the amount of time spent in front of a television or computer screen are also important not only for healthy eyes but also for good social development. In addition, wearing protective eyewear is crucial when children participate in activities that may lead to foreign body coming to the eye. Dr. Örge advises that children get their eyes checked by an eye doctor at the first sign of any problem. The first line of defense against any kind of problem is the pediatrician. Pediatricians should be performing the basic routine eye exams at the following ages:
Every child deserves a full eye examination by an eye doctor at least once before entering school. Children with existing vision problems or with family history of significant eye problems should be seen and followed by an eye doctor. Parents should talk with their doctor about what schedule is best for their children, to ensure they receive the appropriate treatment. Here are some signs that may indicate a vision problem:
If your child needs eye surgery, you can be reassured that recovery will be very quick and virtually painless. Children are almost always under general anesthesia and typically go home the same day of surgery. |
According to Dr. Faruk H. Örge, a pediatric ophthalmologist at University Hospitals Rainbow Babies Children’s Hospital, children need to get their eyes checked on a regular basis—even newborns. Read on to learn how you can preserve your child’s eyesight.