What is pediatric ophthalmology?
Pediatric ophthalmology is eye care for kids. Your child’s eyes are growing and developing just like the rest of their body, and they need similar eye care to what you need. If the team at Foothill Eye Institute diagnoses your child with an eye condition or refractive error, they can take the necessary steps to provide treatment and restore or maintain your child’s vision.
The team at Foothill Eye Institute provides pediatric ophthalmology services like:
- Eye exams
- Diagnostic tests
- Prescription eyewear
- Eye drops
- Laser surgery
The next time you bring your child in for a visit, the team can guide you through the process and let you know which services will benefit your child the most.
Which ophthalmological conditions commonly affect kids?
The most common ophthalmological conditions in children are not the same as those in adults. Some eye conditions are present from birth, while others develop as your child grows or can appear suddenly.
A few common conditions of the eyes that affect children are:
- Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
- Amblyopia (lazy eye)
- Strabismus (crossed eyes)
- Ptosis (droopy eyelids)
- Cellulitis (eyelid or eye socket infection)
- Stye
- Blocked tear ducts
- Eye injuries
- Refractive errors
- Childhood cataracts
Once your child gets a diagnosis from the team at Foothill Eye Institute, the providers tell you about the condition in detail and what treatment might entail.
How often should kids come in for pediatric ophthalmology visits?
You should bring your child in for an appointment at Foothill Eye Institute at the first sign that something is wrong with their eye health. You should consider coming in if your child has:
- Eye redness
- Eye irritation or pain
- Watery eyes
- Squinting to see
- Pus or crust around the eyes
- Light sensitivity
- A wandering eye or crossed eyes
Typically, an eye test is included during your child’s physical exams with their primary care physician. If your child’s physician notices a problem with your child’s eyes or eyesight, you should come in for further assessment.
To schedule the next pediatric ophthalmology appointment for your child, call Foothill Eye Institute or book an appointment online today.
