children s health issues
Refractive Disorders in Children
Introduction
In refractive disorders, the eye is not able to properly focus images on the retina, causing blurred vision. Refractive disorders result in blurring of vision. Children may be unable to make their vision problems known. The diagnosis is based on the results of screening and vision testing. These disorders can be treated with eyeglasses or contact lenses. (See also Overview of Refractive Disorders in adults.) Refractive disorders, such as nearsightedness (inability to see distant objects clearly), farsightedness (inability to see close objects clearly), and astigmatism (an irregular curvature of the focusing surfaces of the eye), result in blurring of vision. Blurring occurs because the eye cannot focus images precisely on the retina. If uncorrected, a permanent decrease in vision ( Amblyopia ) may develop. Children are often not able to make their vision problems known or do not have symptoms. Some children may squint and frown when reading and excessively blink or rub their eyes. Squinting and frowning may lead to headaches. Sometimes a teacher or school nurse is the first to detect a vision problem. 