1 in every 4 children has a vision problem that requires treatment
Dean McGee Eye Institute (DMEI) has served Oklahoma families for 50 years. Its highly skilled team provides comprehensive eye care for the entire family, including infants, children, teens and adults. Pediatric ophthalmologist Dr. Maria Lim shares why early eye exams are key for kids.
How common are vision problems in school-aged children?
Approximately one in four school-aged children has a vision problem that requires corrective lenses or glasses.
Why is vision important for students as they go back to school?
Students depend on their vision more and more with each year as they advance in school. With every academic year, their visual needs increase; they have to read smaller text and see more detail on charts and other teaching tools, making their vision increasingly crucial for learning.
Why should children have an eye exam?
A comprehensive back-to-school eye exam with a qualified ophthalmologist or optometrist should be a top priority on every parent’s list. While school-based vision screenings help identify students who may need glasses, they may miss other important vision issues.
What is the benefit of early diagnosis and treatment for children’s vision problems?
The good news is that treatments for children’s vision problems are very effective. However, early diagnosis is key. The younger the treatment begins, the better the lifetime success for the child.
What does an eye doctor look for during a comprehensive eye exam for a child?
An eye doctor will be looking for any causes of visual acuity problems. They will also check the child’s ability to see at a distance and near, use their eyes together and track objects. They will also examine the important vision structures in the front and back of the eye.
Why might a child receive a dilated eye exam?
Children may receive a dilated eye exam to obtain the most accurate glasses prescription or for the doctor to see details of structures inside the eye, like the optic nerve and retina.
Besides prescribing glasses, what other benefits can a complete eye examination offer?
A complete eye exam can also help parents and teachers identify any undiagnosed vision problems in students. It is especially recommended for any child with concerns for a learning disability, developmental delay or neuropsychological disorder.
What are some common signs that a student might have vision problems?
Parents and teachers should look out for signs such as:
- Eye discomfort or fatigue
- An eye turning in or drifting out, up or down
- Frequent blinking
- Rubbing eyes
- Frequent headaches
- Covering one eye or tilting their head
- Holding objects too close to see them
- Squinting
- Seeing double
- Red, irritated eyes
- Chronic sensitivity to light
- Academic challenges, particularly in reading and comprehension
With convenient locations at the Oklahoma Health Center, in northwest Oklahoma City and Edmond, DMEI has multiple clinics available for families to receive the most comprehensive eye care. To learn more about the Dean McGee Eye Institute, visit dmei.org or schedule an appointment by calling 405-271-6060.
