A fourth of children in school require glasses or contact lenses to correct vision problems that often go undetected, reports the American Optometric Association (AOA). Since many eye health problems are left untreated, issues like eye strain can become increasingly worse overtime.
Cause of Eye Strain in Children
Children often find it difficult to adapt to increasing demands at school, which often require them to read finer text and study for longer periods of time, explains the AOA.
There are several other factors that make children more prone to eye strain:
- –Vision problems: Parents often wait for their kids to tell them if they’re experiencing vision problems. However, children are usually unable to recognize blurred vision as a problem, instead accepting it as normal. Without treatment, conditions such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism can lead to eye strain.
- –Video and computer games: Many children play computer games daily without noticing if their eyes are becoming tired.
- –Light conditions: Children may experience symptoms when working or reading under a dim light.
- –UV rays: It is also possible to suffer from eye strain when spending time outdoors, especially if children lack sunglasses with proper UV protection.
Symptoms of Eye Strain
Common symptoms of eyestrain in children, according to Optometrist, include:
- –Discomfort
- –Headaches
- –Tired eyes
- –Blurred vision
- –Squinting
- –Watery eyes
- –Light sensitivity
- –Dry eyes
Luckily, there are some ways you can help prevent eye strain in your children.
- — Take breaks: How Stuff Works recommends reminding children to blink frequently and take breaks by focusing on a distant object every 15 to 30 minutes.
- –Use artificial tears: You can use eye drops that are free of preservatives as often as you like to relieve your kids of dry eyes, reports Mayo Clinic. However, steer clear of artificial tears that reduce redness as these can aggravate symptoms.
- –Improve air quality: Consider installing a humidifier and lowering the thermostat in areas where your kids do homework.
- –Wear appropriate eyewear: Make sure your kids always wear glasses or contact lenses with an up-to-date prescription when they’re working on homework or looking at a screen.
Wearing sunglasses can also help prevent vision problems. Contact us at Real Kids for more information about finding the perfect pair for your child.