Myopia catching children young

Studies have shown that between 2-6% of children do have some form of vision defect, the most common problem being development and progression of myopia or near sight.

Ophthalmologists from the city say that myopia is catching children as young as three years.

“The most common problem related to vision among children is development and progression of myopia. However, now with awareness among teachers and parents, more similar cases are detected at an early stage,” said Dr Bhujang Shetty, chairman, Narayana Nethralaya. It was essential that every child underwent a thorough eye check-up at three years of age before joining school, he added.

“Children and teens may also suffer from hyperopia (long sight) and astigmatism. Even a simple refractive error can make it difficult for a child to read, resulting in poor grades at school. A common complaint among them is that of allergic conjunctivitis. This is aggravated by dust and pollen,” said Dr Kaushik Murali, consultant paediatric ophthalmologist, Sankara Eye Hospital.

“Again, colour blindness is a commonly used misnomer to denote abnormalities of colour vision. A person is usually colour blind without being aware of it as his vision is otherwise normal. The defect is mostly congenital affecting both eyes due to genetic transmission, but a few acquired cases owing to disease of the visual system have also been noted,” said Dr Murali.

The generally accepted incidence of colour blindness is 8% in males and 0.69% in females. Colour vision is important for pilots, motor drivers, seamen and signal men for their professional work.

“Those with administrative responsibilities may not be impacted. It would be wise to have one’s colour vision tested before career options are made to avoid being denied a  job on medical grounds,” he added.

The single best way to check your eye health and protect your vision is through regular professional eye examinations, doctors said.

“One may be at special risk for eye problems if there is a family history of eye disease, diabetes, high blood pressure or poor vision. In between examinations, if you notice a change in your vision or your eye is injured in any way, talk with your doctor,” said Dr Murali.

To help keep your eyes healthy, get plenty of rest, eat foods rich in antioxidants, take special care when applying make-up and hair spray, and — most of all—wash your hands often to help keep your eyes free of germs and bacteria that cause infections, he added.

“All paediatric eye-related problem should be considered as semi-emergency and should be treated before the child attains eight years of age,” Dr Shetty said and added: “One should take regular breaks while working on computers or performing vision related activities. Also, ensure proper lighting and posture while reading.”