5 Most Common Eye Problems In Children: Signs, Causes & When To Seek Help

By Author: Dr. Suryakant Jha
Total Articles: 21
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Good vision is vital for a child’s learning and development. However, children often struggle to communicate their vision problems, which makes it important for parents to recognize early signs of eye issues. Identifying and treating these problems at the right time can prevent long-term complications. If you are looking for expert guidance, consulting the best eye surgeon in Delhi or visiting a trusted eye hospital in South Delhi can ensure that your child receives the right care.
In this blog, let’s explore the five most common eye problems in children, their signs, causes, and when you should seek professional help.
Refractive Errors (Nearsightedness, Farsightedness & Astigmatism)
Refractive errors are the most common eye problems in children. They occur when the eye cannot properly focus light, leading to blurred vision.
Signs to watch for:

Sitting too close to the TV or holding books very near
Complaints of headaches or eye strain
Squinting frequently
Difficulty seeing the board at school

Causes:
Refractive ...
... errors are usually genetic, but can also be linked to rapid growth of the eye during childhood.
When to seek help:
If your child shows these signs, book an appointment with the top ophthalmologist in Delhi to get a complete eye examination and, if necessary, prescription glasses.
Lazy Eye (Amblyopia)
Amblyopia, commonly called lazy eye, occurs when one eye develops better vision than the other. The brain begins to favor the stronger eye, reducing the vision in the weaker one.
Signs to watch for:

One eye that turns inward or outward
Poor depth perception
Squinting or shutting one eye
Struggling to read or focus

Causes:
Lazy eye can result from untreated refractive errors, misalignment of the eyes, or congenital cataracts.
When to seek help:
Early detection is crucial, as treatment is most effective when started at a young age. The best eye surgeon in Delhi may recommend corrective glasses, patching, or minor surgery depending on the severity.
Squint (Strabismus)
Squint refers to misalignment of the eyes, where they don’t look in the same direction. This condition can affect a child’s confidence and vision development if left untreated.
Signs to watch for:

Eyes that don’t move together
Tilting the head to focus
Double vision
Eye strain and headaches

Causes:
It may result from weak eye muscles, genetic factors, or neurological issues.
When to seek help:
If you notice misalignment, don’t delay. Visiting an eye hospital in South Delhi ensures access to advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatments like vision therapy or surgery.
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, often caused by infection or allergies. While common, it can spread quickly in schools or daycare.
Signs to watch for:

Redness in the eyes
Watery or sticky discharge
Itchy or burning sensation
Swelling around the eyes

Causes:
It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or allergens such as dust and pollen.
When to seek help:
Although conjunctivitis usually resolves with treatment, consult the best eye surgeon in Delhi if symptoms worsen or recur frequently. Proper medication prevents complications and reduces discomfort.
Pediatric Cataracts
Though cataracts are more common in adults, some children are born with them or develop them early in life. This condition clouds the eye lens and can severely affect vision if untreated.
Signs to watch for:

Cloudy or white appearance in the eye
Difficulty focusing on objects
Sensitivity to light
Poor vision despite wearing glasses

Causes:
Congenital cataracts may be inherited, caused by infections during pregnancy, or linked to metabolic conditions.
When to seek help:
Surgery is often required to restore vision. The best eye surgeon has the expertise to handle such delicate pediatric cases safely and effectively.
Final Thoughts
Children’s eye health should never be overlooked, as early intervention can make a lifelong difference. Parents must stay alert to the signs of eye problems and schedule regular eye check-ups, even if no symptoms are apparent. Seeking advice from the best eye surgeon in Delhi or visiting a reputed eye hospital in South Delhi ensures accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. With timely care, your child can enjoy healthy vision and the confidence that comes with it.

Dr. Surya Kant Jha is an eminent eye surgeon in Delhi and the NCR area. He started practicing ophthalmology in 2006. Dr. Surya Kant Jha also has experience working as a senior consultant with some of the top-rated eye hospitals. He got the opportunity to work with some of the top eye specialist doctor in Delhi in this field. Dr. Surya Kant Jha has vast experience in the field of eye surgery, which includes LASIK, Cataract surgery, and many more.