The Global Heroes

SOCIAL MEDIA

14th August 2024 By The Global Heroes Health

Eye Exams Before School: Essential for Detecting Hidden Vision Issues in Children

As back-to-school preparations begin, pediatric ophthalmologists emphasize the importance of eye exams for children, especially during August, Children's Eye Health and Safety Month. Regular vision screenings are essential to identify and correct eye issues early, ensuring children are ready to learn without visual hindrances.

The American Optometric Association warns that many vision disorders may go unnoticed in children and could be misinterpreted as ADHD, dyslexia, or other learning disabilities. This underscores the need for comprehensive eye exams, which can catch conditions like amblyopia (lazy eye) that standard school screenings might miss.

Dr. Daniel Cyr, a pediatric ophthalmologist with Stony Brook Medicine, recommends that children undergo an eye exam with a specialist before starting school and include vision screening in their annual well visits. He highlights that recent studies show children with corrected refractive errors perform better on standardized tests.

With the increasing use of digital devices, myopia (nearsightedness) is on the rise, leading to eye strain. Dr. Cyr advises following the 20-20-20 rule: after 20 minutes of near work, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This practice helps relax the eyes and reduce strain.

Incorporating regular eye exams into your back-to-school routine can significantly impact your child’s academic success and overall well-being.

Related Posts