Comprehensive eye checkup for children
All children should be checked for “Red Reflex” by Pediatrician at the time of birth. By Ophthalmologist at the age of 6 months for squint and vision and preschool, at 3 years of age for Visual Acuity. Then at 5 years of age.
All premature child- should undergo Ophthalmic eye checkup within one month. Government is running this program “Tees Din Roshni Ke”, to eradicate loss of vision in premature babies by examining their eyes within 30 days after birth (For premature baby).
For normal baby red reflex should be observed, if it is there then child’s eyes are fine. You must have observed this reflex in some of the photographs especially taken in dark.
Common problems in children
Refractive Error
Squint
Amblyopia
Allergy/Red eye
Important observation by parents
Eye or vision problems can delay a baby’s development. It is important to detect these problems as early as possible so that they can get the help they need, to grow and learn properly-
Watch for any signs of abnormal eye (External appearance) and vision problems. They can include squint/Strabismus/Cross eye or significant delays in tracking moving objects. Bring them to your Pediatrician and Ophthalmologist’s attention
Watching television very closely or not able to see blackboard in school, bring them for eye examination.
Make sure to have infant/child eye screenings as recommended to find out any vision problems at early stage only – especially in premature child within first 30 days to rule out ROP
Talk with your pediatrician to find out what age-appropriate activities you can do with your baby to help develop their vision
M.S. (Ophth), FLVPEI (Cornea & Anterior Segment). Medical Director, CSR Eye Hospital, Hyderabad, with 29+ years of experience in cataract, cornea and refractive surgery.
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