Prompt identification of childhood eye and vision problems is often the best way to preserve or regain vision. This applies to common pediatric eye conditions such as refractive error requiring eyeglasses, amblyopia (or lazy eye) and strabismus (eyes that are not straight), as well as serious eye conditions.
Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)
Amblyopia is poor vision in an eye that did not develop normal sight during early childhood. This condition, sometimes referred to as “lazy eye,” can run in families. The main causes of amblyopia are strabismus, refractive errors, or cloudiness of the eye tissues. Amblyopia affects about three out of every 100 people. The best time...
Glasses for Children
Prescriptions for eyeglasses can be measured in even the youngest and most uncooperative children by using a special instrument called a retinoscope to analyze the light reflected through the pupil from the back of the eye. Most lenses for children’s eyeglasses are made of polycarbonate lens material, which is stronger and lighter than glass. It...
Strabismus (Crossed Eyes)
Strabismus refers to misaligned eyes. Esotropia (“crossed” eyes) occurs when the eyes turn inward. Exotropia (“wall-eye”) occurs when the eyes turn outward. When one eye is higher than the other, it is called hypertropia (for the higher eye) or hypotropia (for the lower eye). Strabismus can be subtle or obvious, and can occur occasionally or...