Pediatric Eye Care Services

Understanding Strabismus (Misaligned Eyes)

Strabismus, commonly referred to as crossed eyes or squint, is a condition characterized by the misalignment of the eyes. In individuals with strabismus, one eye may turn inwards, outwards, upwards, or downwards while the other eye remains straight. This misalignment can be constant or intermittent and may result in various visual disturbances, including double vision (diplopia), reduced depth perception, and amblyopia (lazy eye).

Causes of Strabismus

Strabismus can manifest in different forms, including:

  1. Esotropia: One eye turns inward towards the nose.
  2. Exotropia: One eye turns outward away from the nose.
  3. Hypertropia: One eye turns upward.
  4. Hypotropia: One eye turns downward.
  5. Alternating Strabismus: The misalignment alternates between the eyes.

 

Treatment for Strabismus:

Treatment for strabismus aims to improve eye alignment, restore binocular vision, and prevent vision loss.

Consultation and Evaluation

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of strabismus, schedule a comprehensive eye examination with Dr. Stewart

Understanding Nystagmus (Involuntary Movement of Eyes)

Nystagmus is a condition characterized by involuntary, rhythmic movements of the eyes, which may occur horizontally, vertically, or in a rotary fashion. These eye movements can be rapid and jerky, slow and oscillatory, or a combination of both. Nystagmus can affect one or both eyes and may result in various visual disturbances, including reduced visual acuity, blurred vision, and oscillopsia (illusion of motion).

Comprehensive Diabetic Eye Exams

Causes of Nystagmus:

Nystagmus can be associated with various factors, including:

  • Congenital Factors: Abnormal development of the visual pathways or structures in the brain during fetal development.
  • Hereditary Factors: Genetic mutations or inherited conditions that predispose individuals to nystagmus.
  • Acquired Factors: Underlying medical conditions, neurological disorders, head injuries, inner ear problems, or certain medications.
  • Visual Factors: Severe refractive errors, strabismus (eye misalignment), or amblyopia (lazy eye) may trigger nystagmus.

Treatment for Nystagmus:

Treatment for nystagmus depends on the underlying cause, severity of symptoms, and impact on visual function.

Consultation and Evaluation

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of nystagmus, Schedule an appointment with Dr. Stewart. the evaluation may include a detailed medical history, visual acuity assessment, eye examination, and neurological evaluation

Understanding Lazy Eyes (Amblyopia)

Lazy eye, medically known as amblyopia, is a vision development disorder that typically begins in childhood. It occurs when one eye has significantly better visual acuity than the other, often due to abnormal visual input during the critical period of visual development. This condition can lead to reduced vision in the affected eye if not detected and treated early.

Causes of Amblyopia

Amblyopia can be caused by various factors, including:

  1. Strabismus: Misalignment of the eyes, where one eye turns inwards, outwards, upwards, or downwards, can lead to amblyopia in the misaligned eye.

  2. Refractive Errors: Significant differences in refractive error (such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism) between the eyes can cause amblyopia in the eye with the more significant refractive error.

  3. Visual Deprivation: Conditions that obstruct or limit vision in one eye during early childhood, such as congenital cataracts, ptosis (drooping eyelid), or significant uncorrected refractive errors, can result in amblyopia.

Treatment of Amblyopia:

The goal of amblyopia treatment is to improve vision in the affected eye and promote binocular vision.

Early Intervention is Key

Early detection and treatment of amblyopia are essential for maximizing visual outcomes. If you suspect that you or your child may have amblyopia or if you notice any signs of reduced vision or eye misalignment, it's crucial to schedule a comprehensive eye examination.

Understanding Blocked Tear Duct (Dacryostenosis)

Blocked tear duct, medically known as dacryostenosis, is a common condition in infants and occasionally occurs in adults. It occurs when the tear duct (nasolacrimal duct), which normally drains tears from the eyes into the nose, becomes partially or completely obstructed. This obstruction can lead to excessive tearing, discharge from the eyes, and discomfort.

Symptoms of Blocked Tear Duct

The primary symptom of blocked tear ducts is excessive tearing, which may be accompanied by:

  • Persistent tearing or watery eyes, particularly when crying or exposed to wind or light.
  • Mucus or discharge from the eyes, which may be clear or contain pus.
  • Crusting around the eyes, especially upon waking.
  • Redness or irritation of the eyes or eyelids.

In infants, blocked tear ducts may also lead to recurrent eye infections (conjunctivitis) or a bulging area near the inner corner of the eye (dacryocystocele) due to accumulation of fluid.

Treatment of Blocked Tear Duct:

Treatment for blocked tear ducts depends on the underlying cause, severity of symptoms, and age of the patient.

Consultation and Evaluation

If you or your child is experiencing symptoms of blocked tear ducts, it's essential to schedule a comprehensive evaluation with Dr. Stewart. They can assess the underlying cause of the blockage and recommend appropriate treatment options to relieve symptoms and promote tear drainage. Early intervention can help prevent complications and improve overall eye health and comfort.

Understanding Allergic and Viral Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva—the thin, transparent membrane that covers the white part of the eye and lines the inner surface of the eyelids. Allergic and viral conjunctivitis are two common types of conjunctivitis, each with distinct causes, symptoms, and treatments.

Symptoms of Allergic Conjunctivitis

  • Itchy, watery eyes
  • Redness or pink discoloration of the eyes
  • Swelling of the eyelids
  • Gritty or foreign body sensation in the eyes
  • Sensitivity to light (photophobia)

 

Treatment of Viral Conjunctivitis:

Viral conjunctivitis is typically self-limiting and resolves on its own within one to two weeks. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing transmission to others. Treatment options may include:

  1. Cold Compresses: Applying cold compresses to the eyes can help alleviate discomfort and reduce inflammation.

  2. Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter artificial tear drops or lubricating eye gels can help soothe dryness and irritation.

  3. Antiviral Eye Drops: In severe cases caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV), antiviral eye drops or ointments may be prescribed to shorten the duration of symptoms.

  4. Hygiene Measures: Practice good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, avoiding touching or rubbing the eyes, and disinfecting surfaces to prevent the spread of the virus.

Early Intervention is Key

If you suspect you have conjunctivitis or are experiencing symptoms such as redness, itching, or discharge from the eyes, it's essential to consult with Dr. Stewart for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate management. She will Determine the underlying cause of conjunctivitis and recommend the most effective treatment options to relieve symptoms and promote healing.

Understanding Corneal Abrasion

A corneal abrasion refers to a scratch or injury on the surface of the cornea—the clear, dome-shaped outermost layer of the eye responsible for focusing light. Corneal abrasions can result from various causes, including foreign objects, contact lenses, trauma, or underlying eye conditions.

Causes of Corneal Abrasion

Common causes of corneal abrasions include:

  1. Foreign Objects: Dust, sand, metal particles, or other foreign objects can scratch the surface of the cornea if they come into contact with the eye.

  2. Contact Lenses: Improper insertion, removal, or cleaning of contact lenses can cause scratches on the corneal surface.

  3. Trauma: Accidental eye injuries, such as getting poked in the eye with a finger or blunt object, can result in corneal abrasions.

  4. Underlying Eye Conditions: Dry eye syndrome, corneal dystrophies, or recurrent corneal erosion syndrome can increase the risk of corneal abrasions.

Treatment of Corneal Abrasion:

Treatment for corneal abrasions aims to relieve symptoms, promote healing, and prevent complications.

Consultation and Evaluation

If you suspect you have a corneal abrasion or are experiencing symptoms such as eye pain, redness, or blurred vision, it's crucial to seek prompt evaluation and treatment. Delayed treatment of corneal abrasions can increase the risk of infection, scarring, or other complications. By addressing corneal abrasions early, you can minimize discomfort and promote optimal healing of the corneal surface.

Understanding Stye (Chalazion)

A stye, also known as a hordeolum, is a common eyelid infection or inflammation that typically occurs at the base of the eyelashes or within an oil gland of the eyelid. It appears as a painful, red bump resembling a pimple or boil and can occur on the inside or outside of the eyelid. If a stye persists and becomes a painless, non-infectious lump, it is then referred to as a chalazion.

Causes of Stye

Styes are usually caused by bacterial infection, most commonly Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Other factors contributing to styes include:

  • Blocked Oil Glands: When the oil glands in the eyelid become blocked, usually due to excess oil, dead skin cells, or bacteria, it can lead to the formation of a stye.
  • Poor Eyelid Hygiene: Inadequate removal of eye makeup, improper contact lens care, or rubbing the eyes with dirty hands can increase the risk of developing styes.
  • Compromised Immune System: Individuals with weakened immune systems or certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, are more susceptible to styes.

Treatment of Stye:

Most styes can be treated at home and typically resolve on their own within a week or two.

Consultation and Evaluation

If the stye does not improve with home remedies, becomes increasingly painful, or affects your vision, schedule an appointment with Dr. Stewart For further evaluation and treatment. In some cases, a stye may require drainage or other interventions to relieve symptoms and prevent complications. By seeking timely evaluation and treatment, you can promote healing and alleviate discomfort associated with styes.

Understanding Myopia, or Nearsightedness

Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is a refractive error of the eye that affects a person’s ability to see distant objects clearly while near objects appear in focus. It occurs when the eyeball is too long or the cornea is too steeply curved, causing light rays to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This results in blurred distance vision, while close-up objects can still be seen clearly.

Causes of Myopia

The exact cause of myopia is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors, including:

  1. Genetics: Myopia tends to run in families, suggesting a strong genetic component. Children with one or both parents who are nearsighted are more likely to develop myopia themselves.

  2. Eye Growth and Development: Myopia often develops during childhood and adolescence as the eyeball continues to grow and elongate. Excessive elongation of the eyeball can lead to increased nearsightedness.

  3. Environmental Factors: Prolonged near work activities, such as reading, using computers, or focusing on digital screens for extended periods, may contribute to the development and progression of myopia, particularly in children.

  4. Outdoor Exposure: Studies suggest that spending time outdoors, especially during childhood, may help reduce the risk of myopia development and progression.

Regular Eye Examinations

Regular eye examinations are essential for monitoring myopia progression, evaluating visual changes, and adjusting treatment as needed. Early detection and intervention are key to managing myopia effectively and minimizing its impact on vision and overall eye health. Individuals with myopia can achieve optimal visual outcomes and maintain clear, comfortable vision for years to come.

Understanding Refractive Errors

Refractive errors are common vision disorders that occur when the shape of the eye or the curvature of the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye) prevents light from focusing correctly on the retina, resulting in blurred or distorted vision. Refractive errors can affect people of all ages and can be corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery.

Causes of Refractive Errors

The exact cause of refractive errors is not always known, but several factors may contribute, including:

  • Genetics: Refractive errors tend to run in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition.
  • Eye Shape: Abnormalities in the shape of the eye, such as elongation or flattening, can lead to refractive errors.
  • Age: Changes in the structure and flexibility of the eye’s lens can occur with age, leading to presbyopia.
  • Environmental Factors: Prolonged near work activities, inadequate lighting, or excessive screen time may contribute to the development or progression of refractive errors.

Consultation and Evaluation

Regular eye examinations are essential for monitoring refractive errors, evaluating visual changes, and ensuring appropriate management to maintain clear, comfortable vision. individuals with refractive errors can achieve optimal visual outcomes and enjoy improved quality of life.