Pediatric Ophthalmology

Amblyopia, also known as lazy eye, is a condition in which one eye has reduced vision due to abnormal development during early childhood.

Strabismus, commonly known as squint, is a condition in which the eyes are not properly aligned, causing one eye to look inward, outward, upward, or downward.

Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye and lines the inside of the eyelid.

Cataracts are a clouding of the lens of the eye, which can lead to blurred vision, glare, and difficulty seeing in dim light.

Patching the stronger eye is a common treatment for amblyopia, as it forces the weaker eye to work harder and improve its vision.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that children have their first comprehensive eye exam at 6 months of age, followed by exams at 3 years and 5 years.

Strabismus can be caused by muscle imbalance, refractive errors (such as nearsightedness or farsightedness), neurological disorders, or a combination of these factors.

Strabismus surgery, also known as eye muscle surgery or squint surgery, is a surgical procedure to correct the misalignment of the eyes.

Conjunctivitis can be caused by bacteria, viruses, allergies, or irritants such as smoke or dust.

Conjunctivitis caused by bacteria is typically treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointment.

Risk factors for developing cataracts in children include diabetes, trauma, prolonged exposure to sunlight, and certain genetic conditions.

Phacoemulsification is the most common surgical procedure used to remove cataracts in children. It involves using ultrasound waves to break up the cataract and then aspirating it out of the eye.

Preventive measures for eye injuries in children include wearing protective eyewear during sports and activities, avoiding sharp objects and hazardous materials, and having regular eye exams.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no screen time for children under the age of 2 years.

Sudden loss of vision, severe eye pain, and redness and swelling of the eye are all signs of a serious eye condition that requires immediate medical attention.