Recognizing signs and symptoms of vision loss is crucial for maintaining eye health at any age. Dr. Christina Weng, assistant professor of ophthalmology at Baylor College of Medicine, emphasizes the importance of identifying these signs in young children to prevent potential academic challenges or permanent vision loss.
“There is a period – approximately the first eight years of life – when the brain and the eye are learning to work together and the visual system is still developing,” said Dr. Weng. “During this time, parents should watch out for behavioral changes because they can be a sign of potential eye problems.”
Behavioral changes can occur when children experience vision loss but cannot articulate their difficulties, leading them to act out in class or at home. This may even impact their academic performance.
“When children have trouble seeing, they often act out or exhibit other signs of stress, and it can be challenging to determine the cause of their behavior. It is very helpful for parents to pay attention to what situations trigger their behavior,” she added.
Parents can assess behavioral changes related to vision impairment by considering several questions: Does my child become upset when watching a movie from afar? Do they avoid reading or other near work? Do they seem to ignore people or objects at a distance?
Dr. Weng advises that early detection is key in preventing or delaying vision loss. She suggests regular eye screenings throughout infancy and childhood by skilled eye care providers.
Weng also recommends practices to help prevent myopia, which is becoming increasingly common among younger populations. “Myopia is associated with a higher risk of vision-threatening issues such as retinal detachment, and research is being done actively to find effective ways of prevention,” she said. Reducing near-work activities and spending more time outdoors may help curb myopia development in children and adolescents.
“Parents often ask me if sitting closer to the board, performing eye exercises or avoiding reading in the dark would help improve eye health. There really is no strong evidence to support this,” she stated.
“The best way to prevent or delay vision loss from happening is early detection,” Dr. Weng reiterated.
If any signs of vision loss are observed in a child, Dr. Weng recommends an immediate visit to an ophthalmologist for a comprehensive eye examination. Early detection increases the chances of preserving good vision.
“It is critical that children receive eye screenings throughout childhood because different problems can arise at different ages," she concluded. "While the exact frequency of exams varies depending on an individual’s risk factors, the first screening should take place when the baby is a newborn. Subsequent exams are generally recommended at six to 12 months, three years of age, and then periodically throughout school age years.”
