Refractive Errors in Children and Infants
Children often cannot express their vision problems. Therefore, regular eye examinations are crucial for children and infants. Some children may excessively blink their eyes while reading, frown, or constantly rub their eyes.
It is important for every child to have regular check-ups for refractive errors and other eye problems. Even at the age of 3 or 4, children can undergo vision tests with images, shapes, or letters. Each eye is tested separately to detect vision loss affecting only one eye.
The most common refractive errors in infants and children are myopia, astigmatism, and hyperopia.
Myopia
Myopia, a refractive error usually of genetic origin, causes distant objects to appear blurry. It is the most common vision problem that requires correction in children. This condition can lead to headaches or eye strain. It often becomes apparent when school-aged children cannot clearly see the blackboard.
Astigmatism
A condition caused by the abnormal curvature of the cornea, resulting in two focal points falling in different places, causing objects at both near and far distances to appear blurry. Astigmatism can cause eye strain and may be seen along with myopia or hyperopia. It can begin in childhood or adulthood. Symptoms include headaches, eye fatigue, and tiredness. Children with astigmatism often rub their eyes frequently, lose interest in school, and have difficulty reading. Depending on the severity of astigmatism, glasses or contact lenses may be needed.
Hyperopia
A condition where near objects appear blurry. Hyperopia, which can occur not only in older age but also in childhood and adolescence, makes it difficult for a person to focus on nearby objects and can lead to symptoms like headaches, eye strain, and tiredness. Children with hyperopia often blink, rub their eyes, show disinterest in school, and have difficulty reading. Hyperopia is often genetic, and sometimes strabismus can occur in hyperopic children.
Untreated refractive errors are the most common cause of vision loss in children worldwide and in Turkey. Refractive errors not treated with glasses or contact lenses at an early age can result in permanent blurred vision in adulthood, known as amblyopia.
Children usually do not complain about blurred vision, especially if they are experiencing it in only one eye. Untreated refractive errors have no obvious symptoms or signs. Parents and caregivers may not notice any problems by looking at the child's eyes. The best way to diagnose a refractive error is through an eye examination. During the examination, eye drops are used to dilate the pupils of both eyes. This examination helps the eye doctor assess whether there is a refractive error and how serious it is. If necessary, glasses can be prescribed to enhance the child's vision.
Cost of Refractive Error Treatment in Children and Infants
The cost of treating refractive errors in children and infants varies depending on the underlying cause and the procedure to be performed. The treatment plan prepared by our specialist eye doctor after a detailed examination can vary from person to person.
For appointment and price information, please click here.The above information is for informational purposes only. If you have any medical concerns or questions, please make an appointment with our doctors.