Vision problems are common among school-age children – in fact, one in four have vision problems that, if left untreated, can affect learning ability, personality and adjustment in school.
“Needing glasses is the most common condition seen in kids, however other common conditions include crossing or drifting of the eye(s), and eye allergies,” said Janet L. Alexander, MD, assistant professor of ophthalmology and visual sciences at University of Maryland School of Medicine, and pediatric ophthalmologist at the Friedenwald Eye Institute. “These conditions, as with the more rare conditions, can all improve, and sometimes be cured, with treatment.”
When to Get An Exam
According to Dr. Alexander, children do not need regular eye exams, except for cases where there is a known eye condition (such as retinopathy of prematurity or strabismus), or a family history of genetic eye problems.
“The most reliable sign that your child may have an eye condition is a failed screening exam either at the pediatrician’s office or at school. Other signs to watch for are squinting, crossed eyes or one eye drifting out to the side (sometimes called “lazy eye”), or complaint that your child cannot see what you can see.”
We’re Here to Help
At University of Maryland Eye Associates, faculty physicians from the University of Maryland School of Medicine provide comprehensive pediatric ophthalmology services.
Our specialists have experience in treating all types of childhood eye conditions and are dedicated to delivering outstanding patient-centered care.
Pediatric eye conditions treated by University of Maryland Eye Associates include:
- Congenital eyelid and orbit disorders (strabismus, amblyopia and nystagmus)
- Childhood neuro-ophthalmic disorders
- Congenital cataracts
- Glaucoma
- Corneal diseases
- Congenital retinal disorders
- Genetic eye diseases
- Infectious and inflammatory diseases of the eyes, such as uveitis
With locations in Baltimore City, Columbia and Owings Mills, patients can be seen within 1 – 2 weeks.
