What To Expect At Your Child’s Eye Exam

Your children depend on you as their parents to take care of their basic needs, especially younger ones. It is best to get your child’s vision inspected as soon as possible because early eye issues can impact vision for life. Uncovering any problems now can help avoid problems from developing later, such as lazy eyes or crossed eyes.

When searching for a doctor or medical practice for your child’s eye exam, be sure to do your research. You will want to make sure they are seen by a licensed, professional and highly recommended doctor. You will be greeted by professional staff members that will focus on your child’s vision during your visit. While using a variety of methods, your child’s visual behavior will be assessed accurately.

Your child’s visual acuity will be tested to determine how well they see at different distances. Standard eye charts are used if your child is able to read, while shapes are used when they cannot. The pupils will be tested for response to light by the doctor shining a bright light into each eye to assess whether reactions are normal. Lastly, the eye movement test will be sued to test peripheral vision. An object is typically moved in different directions to see how well your child’s eyes follow.

The most accurate way to assess eye health and vision is by dilation. Liquid drops will be placed in each eye pupil and this will relax the muscles within about an hour. Dilation is a very critical part of the eye examination. When your child’s pupils are completely dilated, the doctor can check for any vision issues or to see if your child needs to wear glasses or contacts. Most children adapt well to the drops being placed in their eyes, they may tell you that their eyes are somewhat blurry. This will wear off during the day after the exam.

Once your child’s eyes are fully dilated you will be called back into the examination room. Be sure that if you have any questions during the exam to ask the doctor. The doctor will inform you on the findings once the exam is completed.

How To Make The Visit A Little More Enjoyable

Be sure to bring all of the paperwork that is needed such as forms that were to be filled out and other supporting documents like insurance cards and identification cards. If your child already wears glasses or contacts, bring them with you to the visit. A list of any medications and medical conditions if applicable is also helpful. A parent or legal guardian must accompany the child for the duration of the visit.

Bring sunglasses for when you leave the office so that the child can wear them home. Their eyes may be sensitive to light for up to 24 hours. It varies by each person when the eyes get dilated.

Make sure not to forget the snacks and toys because most likely your child is going to get hungry and you want to make sure that they have an enjoyable visit. A not so happy child sitting for 2 hours in an office can get be a handful. Make them comfortable as possible.

For tips or a consultation and to schedule an appointment contact us today at 561-798-0244.

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