Most children are given a basic vision screening by their pediatrician during a check-up, and often by the school nurse as well. This is an important part of your child’s overall health. But is it enough?
Pediatric Vision Screening in Raleigh
Vision screenings at the pediatrician’s office only check visual acuity – distance vision. In other words. They are checking to make sure your child can see clearly at a distance (usually 20 feet away). Your pediatrician will refer your child to an optometrist if he is unable to clearly read the eye chart, and will probably need glasses.
Comprehensive Eye Exam for Kids in Raleigh
There is much more to a child’s eye health than the ability to read an eye chart. Your optometrist will examine your child for early signs of eye disease or infection. A comprehensive eye exam with an optometrist will check:
- Binocular vision: how the eyes work together as a team
- Focusing
- Peripheral Vision
- Color Vision
- Hand-eye Coordination
- Tracking
Along with other eye-related conditions, your eye doctor will check for:
- Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)
- Pediatric Cataracts
- Double Vision
- Pediatric Glaucoma
- Myopia (Nearsightedness)
- Hyperopia (Farsightedness)
- Strabismus (Misaligned eyes)
Good vision is an important part of your child’s development and education. Screenings can help identify the big problems, but the best way to ensure your child has healthy eyesight is with an annual eye exam at the optometrist’s office.