Child Eye Examination

What is the Difference Between Vision Screenings and Comprehensive Eye Exams?

Schools in Pakistan sometimes conduct vision screenings to catch issues that may affect learning. However, passing a school screening doesn’t guarantee that your child’s vision is free from issues. A comprehensive eye exam is recommended to check for any undetected problems that might impact their daily activities.

When Should My Child Have Their First Eye Exam?

Eye specialists recommend that children have their first eye exam at six months old to check for normal development. A second exam around age 2-3 and another before starting school are advised to ensure their vision is on track. Annual check-ups are ideal for monitoring ongoing development.

What to Expect at Your Child’s First Eye Exam

Your child’s eye doctor may ask about their birth history, family history of eye conditions, and medical background. Be prepared to discuss any development delays or signs like frequent eye rubbing or blinking. It’s also essential to inform the doctor if your child has failed a school vision screening.

What is Eye Testing for Infants (6 Months to 2 Years)?

By six months, infants are tested for eye focus, color vision, and depth perception using methods such as:

• Pupil Response Test: Measures how well pupils react to changes in light.
• Fixate and Follow Test: Assesses the baby’s ability to focus on and follow objects.
• Preferential Looking: Special cards are used to gauge the baby’s vision based on their gaze.

What is Involved in Eye Exams for Preschool Children (2 to 5 Years)?

Preschoolers develop visual skills crucial for activities like drawing, stacking blocks, and identifying colors. At this stage, an eye exam includes:

• Visual Acuity Testing
• Lazy Eye and Depth Perception Checks
• Eye Tracking and Convergence Assessment
• Color Vision and Ocular Health Evaluation

If your child shows delays in recognizing shapes or colors, it might indicate a vision problem.

What is the Procedure for Eye Testing Older Children (6 to 18 Years)?

For older children, exams assess visual acuity at various distances, focusing skills, and tracking abilities. Essential skills tested include:

• Eye Focusing for shifting between near and far objects.
• Eye Teaming to coordinate both eyes when reading.
• Visual Perception and Hand-Eye Coordination

Undetected vision issues may impact academic and athletic performance, making routine exams critical.

What is Myopia and Hyperopia?

Myopia (Nearsightedness): This affects distant vision and often appears during school age. Symptoms may include squinting and difficulty reading the board.

Hyperopia (Farsightedness): This impacts near vision and may cause symptoms like eye strain, blurry vision when reading, or holding books at arm’s length.

What is Pupil Dilation and Why is it Done?

During an eye exam, your eye doctor may use dilating drops to better inspect the inner eye. These drops may cause temporary light sensitivity and blurriness but are essential for a comprehensive assessment. Bringing sunglasses for your child can help reduce any discomfort after the appointment.

Can My Child Go to School After Their Exam?

Most children can resume daily activities after their exam, though mild blurriness and light sensitivity may be present due to the dilating drops.

What is the Recommended Eye Exam Schedule?

Regular eye exams are crucial for monitoring your child’s eye health:

• 6-12 months: Initial assessment
• 2-3 years: Follow-up exam
• 4-5 years: Pre-school check-up
• Annually from age 6: Routine check-ups

If any issues are detected, more frequent exams may be necessary. Schedule an appointment at Visualis Eye Clinic in Lahore to keep your child’s vision and eye health on track.