PEDIATRIC OPHTHALMOLOGY

• A standard pediatric eye exam can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the age of your child and the specific tests needed. During the exam, our team will evaluate your child’s vision, check for refractive errors, and assess the overall health of their eyes.

• It is recommended that your child have their first eye check-up at 6 months of age. Additional eye exams should be scheduled at 3 years of age and before they start school (around age 5 or 6). After that, regular check-ups every one to two years are advisable, especially if there are no apparent vision problems.

If you notice any of the following signs, it’s important to schedule an eye exam for your child sooner:

• Routine eye exams can detect common issues such as refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism) and eye alignment problems like strabismus. If a more complex condition is suspected, our team will advise on further evaluation and treatment options.

• While optometrists are trained to conduct routine eye exams and prescribe corrective lenses, it’s important to consult an ophthalmologist for a comprehensive evaluation, especially if your child has symptoms of a more serious condition. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who can diagnose and treat a broader range of eye diseases and perform surgery if necessary.

• If your child has a healthy vision, seeing an ophthalmologist for a routine exam every 1-2 years is sufficient. However, if your child has been diagnosed with a vision problem or an eye condition, more frequent visits may be recommended to monitor and manage the condition effectively.

During the exam, the ophthalmologist will

• Before the visit, explain to your child that the exam is a simple process to ensure their eyes are healthy. Reassure them that there may be some bright lights and possibly eye drops, but the visit will be quick and help them see better. Bringing a favorite toy or book can also help keep your child calm during the visit.

• If your child needs corrective lenses, our team will guide you through the process of selecting the right glasses. We offer a range of frames suitable for children that are both durable and comfortable. Proper fitting is crucial to ensure your child wears the glasses regularly and experiences the full benefits of improved vision.

• Yes, follow-up visits are important, especially if your child has been prescribed glasses or treatment for a vision condition. Regular monitoring ensures that your child’s eyes are developing properly and that any issues are addressed early on.

• In case of an eye injury, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. You can bring your child to Shanthi Nethralaya Eye Hospital for prompt care. We will assess the injury and provide the necessary treatment to prevent further complications.