Paediatric Ophthalmology

Paediatric ophthalmology focuses on the diagnosis and management of eye conditions in infants, children, and adolescents, where early detection is especially important as vision continues to develop throughout childhood. Common conditions include strabismus (eye misalignment), amblyopia or “lazy eye” (reduced vision due to improper visual development), refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism, as well as more complex conditions like congenital cataracts, retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), and paediatric glaucoma.

Children may not always be able to communicate vision problems clearly, so signs such as squinting, eye rubbing, poor eye coordination, or delayed visual responses should not be overlooked. Comprehensive eye examinations using child-friendly techniques and specialised equipment are essential for accurate diagnosis.

Treatment varies depending on the condition and may include prescription glasses, eye patching or atropine therapy for amblyopia, vision therapy, or surgical intervention when necessary. Timely and appropriate management is crucial not only to correct vision but also to support normal visual development, learning, and overall quality of life as the child grows.