Regular eye screenings for children are crucial for early detection and treatment of lazy eye, also known as amblyopia, as UAE doctors emphasize. Lazy eye is a common childhood condition where one eye has weaker vision than the other due to not receiving adequate use during the critical development stage.
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, lazy eye affects around 3 out of every 100 children. The condition can lead to permanent vision impairment if left untreated, making early detection through regular eye screenings essential. UAE doctors recommend that children have their eyes screened regularly, starting as early as six months of age.
Dr. Sara Al Madani, an ophthalmologist at Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai, highlights the importance of early detection in treating lazy eye. She explains, “Amblyopia needs timely intervention, ideally before four years of age to have the best results.” If detected early, lazy eye can often be successfully treated through a combination of eye exercises, wearing glasses, or using an eye patch over the stronger eye to strengthen the weaker one.
Dr. Alvin Mas Mechaal, Specialist Ophthalmologist at Burjeel Hospital Abu Dhabi, also stresses the significance of regular eye check-ups for children. He advises parents to look out for symptoms such as squinting, tilting of the head, or difficulty with hand-eye coordination, which can indicate a potential vision problem.
In addition to lazy eye, early eye screenings can help detect other vision issues such as refractive errors, strabismus (crossed eyes), and cataracts. By identifying these issues early on, appropriate treatment can be provided to prevent further vision impairment and ensure optimal eye health for children as they grow.
Parents are encouraged to schedule regular eye screenings for their children with an eye care professional to monitor their eye health and catch any potential issues early. By staying proactive and vigilant about their children’s vision, parents can help set them up for a lifetime of good eye health and clear vision.