Signs of Vision Problems in Children
Some vision problems are easy to spot, and some have no obvious signs at all. The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that a lazy eye (amblyopia), for example, may have no warning signs. That's why regular vision checks matter even when everything seems fine.
Signs to tell your child's doctor about (any age)
From the American Academy of Pediatrics' HealthyChildren.org:
- Eyes that are misaligned (look crossed, turn out, or don't focus together)
- White or grayish-white color in the pupil
- Eyes that flutter quickly side to side or up and down
- Eye pain, itchiness, or discomfort
- Redness that doesn't go away in a few days; pus or crust
- Eyes that are always watery; drooping eyelids
- Eyes that often seem overly sensitive to light
Signs during reading and schoolwork
Closing one eye or tilting the head can be a sign of strabismus (American Academy of Ophthalmology). Headaches with reading, losing place, words moving, and avoiding close work can point to functional vision problems like convergence insufficiency. Try our checklist.
Sources: HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics): Warning Signs of Vision Problems in Infants & Children; American Academy of Ophthalmology: How Photos Can Help Diagnose Children's Eye Problems; American Academy of Ophthalmology: Strabismus in Children.
Wondering if it's a vision problem?
Take the free checklist, then talk with a developmental optometrist.
