Pediatric Eye Exams
First Eye Exams
We recommend a cycloplegic eye exam for first-time glasses wearers. These eye drops help us determine the most accurate prescription for a young person. Extra time is needed for these exams, as it can take up to 45 minutes for the drops to take effect. A side effect of this eye drop is pupil dilation, blurry vision, and light sensitivity.
Since young people have very active focusing systems, initial eye exam readings can vary and may be inaccurate. Cycloplegic eye exams prevent the eyes from overworking and allow us to more precisely determine levels of nearsightedness and farsightedness.
Optomap Wide-Field Retinal Imaging using OPTOS California is recommended for young patients to quickly and accurately check the health inside the eyes. This imaging provides the widest view inside the eyes for the most thorough retinal evaluation.
Understanding Hyperopia in Children
Hyperopia, or farsightedness, occurs when the eye is too short, causing light to focus behind the retina. It is normal for children to start out mildly farsighted as their eyes develop, and low levels of hyperopia caction. However, at moderate levels, children may experience eye strain, fatigue, and headaches, resulting in blurred vision for both near and distant objects. In cases of high hyperopia, the eye cannot sufficiently compensate, which can impede visual development before the age of 8 and result in long-term blurry vision. Early intervention with corrective lenses is essential to support normal development. Because a child's focusing ability can mask the condition, cycloplegic eye exams are crucial for an accurate assessment. Since children's eyes change rapidly, annual exams are important to monitor vision and adjust prescriptions as needed.
Understanding Myopia in Children
Myopia, commonly referred to as nearsightedness, is a refractive error where distance vision appears blurred because the eye is excessively elongated or the cornea has excessive curvature. This can lead to challenges in school and sports, often causing children to squint or bring objects closer to see clearly. Myopia has become a significant public health concern, with projections indicating that half the global population will be affected by 2050. Beyond immediate blurred vision, it can contribute to severe ocular conditions later in life, such as retinal detachment and macular degeneration. Modern advancements offer promising myopia control strategies for children aged 5 to 12. Early intervention is critical, and cycloplegic examinations as early as age 5 or 6 are instrumental in identifying signs of progressive myopia and preserving long-term ocular health.
Comprehensive Pediatric Care and Technology
Radiant Eyes Total Eye Care utilizes advanced diagnostic technology to ensure a thorough and comfortable experience for its youngest patients. A key component of their pediatric service is the use of Optomap Wide-Field Retinal Imaging via the OPTOS California system. This technology allows the doctors to quickly and accurately evaluate the health of the internal eye with the widest view possible, which is especially beneficial for children who may find traditional exams difficult. Additionally, the clinic emphasizes the importance of the cycloplegic eye exam for first-time glasses wearers. By using specific eye drops to temporarily relax the eye's active focusing system, the doctors can determine the most precise prescription possible, ensuring that a child's nearsightedness or farsightedness is not underestimated or masked.
Ready to See Radiantly?
Experience the perfect blend of advanced medical technology and compassionate, family-centered care. Whether your child needs their first eye exam or you are looking for specialized myopia control, Dr. Nicole and the team at Radiant Eyes are here to guide your family’s vision journey.