It is a branch of ophthalmology that deals with children's eye health and vision development. Children are in a period when their vision development continues rapidly. Therefore, eye health problems can cause permanent vision loss if not diagnosed early. Pediatric ophthalmology specialists detect children's vision problems at an early stage. Thus, they treat them and support their vision development.
What Does Pediatric Ophthalmology Do?
A subspecialty of ophthalmology that deals with the eye health and vision development of children. This field focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of eye problems that occur from birth through adolescence.
Children’s vision develops rapidly in the first years of their lives. Eye health during this period directly affects their future quality of life. Pediatric ophthalmologists try to detect problems early with regular checkups. They deal with congenital eye diseases, strabismus and amblyopia. They also treat refractive errors and eye infections.
Management of serious diseases such as retinopathy (ROP) in premature babies is also within the scope of this field. Early diagnosis of eye problems in children ensures healthy development of vision. In this way, permanent vision loss that may occur in the future can be prevented.
Pediatric ophthalmologists use special examination techniques for children. These methods are selected according to the age and cooperation level of the children. During the treatment process, eyeglass prescription, contact lens applications and surgery can be evaluated. In addition, methods such as eye exercises play an important role in the treatment.
With the proliferation of digital screens, digital eye strain has become common in children. Pediatric ophthalmology specialists offer solutions for these problems. Regular eye examinations at an early age are very important for both children's visual development and their overall quality of life. Therefore, it is recommended that every child be examined at regular intervals.
What Diseases Does Pediatric Ophthalmology Deal With?
It deals with eye diseases specific to children from birth to adolescence. This field aims to protect children's eye health and support their vision. Eye diseases seen in children can cause permanent vision loss if not diagnosed early. Specialists play a critical role in the early diagnosis and treatment process.
One of the most common diseases encountered in this specialty is strabismus. Strabismus is a condition in which the eyes are not aligned correctly. This disease can be treated with surgical interventions or optical methods.
Amblyopia is another important problem frequently seen in children. This is a condition where one eye has less vision than the other and requires early treatment.
Cataracts and glaucoma are important congenital diseases. Congenital cataracts can negatively affect the child's visual development. This disease is usually treated with surgery. Retinopathy is caused by problems in the development of the retina. If left untreated, it can lead to serious vision loss.
Pediatric ophthalmology It deals with problems such as refractive errors and eye infections. Allergic eye diseases and congenital eye muscle problems are also covered in the treatment.
Digital eye strain has become more common in children as digital screen use has increased. Regular examination by a pediatric ophthalmologist is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment.
What Are Pediatric Ophthalmology Procedures?
Pediatric ophthalmology, works to protect eye health in children. It applies various diagnostic and treatment methods to treat vision problems. These procedures are shaped according to the child's age, visual development and current eye problem. Early diagnosis and intervention are the most effective way to protect eye health and prevent future problems.
The first step usually begins with an eye examination. It evaluates the level of vision using special examination methods suitable for children. In these examinations, the alignment of the eyes, focusing ability and refractive errors are determined. It is checked for problems such as color blindness or strabismus. Glasses or contact lenses are usually prescribed for vision disorders diagnosed early.
Strabismus treatment is one of the most common procedures performed. This treatment may include optical correction, eye exercises or surgical interventions. In the treatment of amblyopia, eye closure treatment or special exercises are usually applied. Surgical intervention may be required in serious cases such as congenital cataracts or glaucoma.
In premature babies retinopathy Treatment is another important area. Laser treatment or surgery is used to support retinal development in this disease. In addition, drug treatment is applied for eye infections and allergic eye disorders.
With the increasing use of digital screens today, digital eye strain treatment also has an important place. Pediatric ophthalmologyprovides appropriate guidance for the management of this problem. Regular eye exams are critical to children’s healthy vision development and overall quality of life.