When your child needs vision correction for nearsightedness, farsightedness, or treatment for an eye condition, trust the experts at West Broward Eyecare Associates in Tamarac, Florida. The doctors treat a variety of pediatric eye conditions and give excellent, compassionate care. Call the office or schedule your child’s appointment online as well as appointments for any other family.
Pediatric Eye Exams Q & A
How often does my child need an eye exam?
Eye exams should be performed regularly at well-child visits to your pediatrician. They may refer you to an optometrist if they suspect an issue with vision or eye health. Your child benefits from regular vision checks at 6 months old, 3 years old, and before first grade at the very least.
For many children, these regular check-ups with the pediatrician are enough, but if you have a history of eye conditions or vision issues in your family or your child exhibits symptoms of an eye problem, you may choose to see an eye specialist such as those at West Broward Eyecare Associates.
What signs suggest my child should go to the eye doctor?
If your pediatrician suspects a vision or eye health issue, you should, of course, make an appointment at West Broward Eyecare Associates for your child. Signs that your child is struggling with their sight include:
- Poor school performance
- Not wanting to go to school
- Difficulty paying attention
- Difficulty when reading and writing
- Blurry or double vision
- Headaches or eye pain
- Trouble seeing information on the chalkboard
- Taking longer than normal to complete homework
Your child may not say they’re having trouble seeing, as they don’t know what clear vision is — the way they see is their reality.
What occurs during a child’s eye exam?
Your child’s eye exam includes an overall inspection of their eyes and eyelids. The doctors look at muscle movement, pupils, and reflection of light from the back of the eye. Older children have the back of their eye examined using an ophthalmoscope.
The doctors also check your child’s cornea using a small flashlight. They also perform “cover testing,” which detects shifts in the eyes. During a cover test, the doctor asks your child to focus while covering one eye, and then the other. Age-appropriate visual acuity tests are also conducted — this is the familiar eye chart test.
West Broward Eyecare Associates provides the best in family eye care services. Call to make an appointment for you or your family members. Alternatively, use the online tool.
