Common Vision Problems in Children: A Guide for Parents

When you have concerns about your children's vision, consider seeing an eye doctor for an eye exam at the optometry office of Advanced Eye Care in Amarillo, Canyon, Hereford, and Dumas. Our optometrists can diagnose and treat most conditions that affect your child's vision.

Refractive Errors

•  Myopia is the most common eye condition in the world, affecting a total of 22% of people. It is more common in older children aged 14-19 than in preschool or elementary school-aged children. As a parent, signs to look for include squinting when looking at things far away or moving closer to watch TV. Glasses or contact lenses can correct the condition.
•  Hyperopia is farsightedness. It is common in children, but it doesn't always need to be treated. In many cases, the child's own eye muscles will cause the eye to properly focus. If it does become an issue, it can be corrected with eyeglasses. If you notice your child holding books or toys closer than normal to their face, they may need an eye exam.
•  Astigmatism is more common in children who have myopia or hyperopia. It causes objects to appear blurry, whether they are near or far. It is caused by the shape of the cornea. Getting an eye exam and having this diagnosed early is crucial. If it isn't diagnosed, it can often be misinterpreted as a learning disability.

Strabismus

Strabismus is the official name for crossed eyes. It is a common eye condition in children, affecting 2-4 percent of the population. The condition needs to be diagnosed and treated by your eye doctor early so that it doesn't cause vision loss later on.

Amblyopia

Amblyopia, also known as lazy eye, can be caused by strabismus. If the eye is not treated quickly, it can lead to permanent damage and the weak eye becoming useless.

Contact Us for Eye Care in Amarillo, Canyon, Hereford, and Dumas, TX

Are you looking for an eye doctor near you? To make an appointment with one of our optometrists at Advanced Eye Care, call our office at Amarillo: (806) 355-9536, Canyon: (806) 655-7748, Dumas: (806) 935-7773, and Hereford: (806) 364-3030.