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7 Common Paediatric Eye Conditions Every Parent Should Know About

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 12:43:30 GMT

One in five Australian children lives with an eye or vision condition. That is a significant number, yet most of such cases go completely unnoticed until the child is already falling behind at school, struggling to read, or sitting too close to everything.

The challenge is that children rarely realise their vision is different from everyone else's. If blurry vision is all they have ever known, they often assume it is normal. If they have always seen the world slightly blurred, they assume that is just how it is. They do not complain; in fact, they adapt. And because the early signs are so easy to miss, parents are often the last to find out something is wrong.

Understanding the signs of common eye conditions can help parents seek treatment sooner. Below, we cover seven of the most common childhood eye conditions, along with their symptoms and available treatment options.

Quick Summary

The 7 most common paediatric eye conditions to watch out for include:

Childhood myopia
Lazy eye (amblyopia)
Crossed eyes (strabismus)
Conjunctivitis
Digital eye strain
Colour vision deficiency
Paediatric dry eye or allergies.

Most of these conditions are treatable when caught early through a comprehensive children's eye examination.

Signs Your Child May Need an Eye Examination

Before getting into specific children's eye problems, it helps to know what to watch for at home. Some signs that warrant a professional examination for a child’s vision include:

Sitting unusually close to the TV or holding books very close to their face
Frequent squinting, eye rubbing, or head tilting
Complaints of headaches, especially after school or screen time
Losing their place while reading, or avoiding reading altogether
One eye turning inward or outward
Covering or closing one eye to see better
Sensitivity to light or frequent blinking

If you spot any of these, do not wait for the school vision screening to flag something. School screenings are basic checks. They are not comprehensive eye health examinations. You should always consult an optometrist or eye care professional for a proper assessment.

The 7 Most Common Paediatric Eye Conditions

Here is what every parent should know about the 7 most common pediatric conditions: what they are, how they show up, and what can be done about them.

1 . Childhood Myopia (Short-Sightedness)

Myopia is now one of the most widespread children's vision problems in Australia. A short-sighted child can see nearby objects clearly but struggles to see distant objects sharply. These objects may include:

The whiteboard at school
A friend waving from across the street
Street signs or television text

The underlying cause of Myopia is physical. The eyeball grows slightly too long, which causes incoming light to focus just in front of the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. And because the eye is still growing during childhood, myopia tends to get worse year after year if it is not managed.

How It Is Managed

While there is no permanent cure for myopia, its progression can be slowed down significantly to protect your child's future eye health. Evidence-backed options include:

Low-dose Atropine eye drops (nightly drops that relax the eye's focusing mechanism)
Dual Focus spectacle lenses (special glasses designed for school and play that curb eye elongation)
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) (hard contact lenses worn only overnight to reshape the cornea temporarily)
Encouraging more outdoor time (as natural daylight acts like a natural brake and stops the eyeball from growing too long)

2. Lazy Eye (Amblyopia)

Amblyopia happens when one eye does not develop normal vision strength during childhood, usually because the brain starts to favour the other eye and gradually stops processing signals from the weaker one. Without treatment, the connection between the weaker eye and the brain may not develop properly, leading to lasting vision loss if left untreated.

The tricky part is that many children with amblyopia show no outward sign of a problem. They navigate daily life normally because their stronger eye is compensating. That is precisely why it tends to go undiagnosed without a proper eye examination.

Signs that may point to amblyopia include:

Frequent eye rubbing
Difficulty judging distances, such as catching a ball, climbing stairs, or navigating uneven surfaces.
Sometimes, there is a visible difference in the position or movement of each eye.

How to Fix It

Patching the stronger eye to force the brain to use the weaker one is still a common and effective approach, often combined with corrective lenses.

The window for successful treatment narrows significantly as the child gets older, so early detection matters enormously.

3. Crossed Eyes (Strabismus)

Strabismus is the condition where both eyes do not align when looking at the same object. One eye may turn inward, outward, upward, or downward. It can be constant or intermittent, sometimes only appearing when the child is tired or unwell.

Parents are often the first to notice that one eye occasionally drifts or does not move in sync with the other. If your child's eyes seem to drift or do not move together, that observation is worth taking seriously and acting on quickly.

When strabismus is not treated, amblyopia may develop as the brain begins to ignore the misaligned eye in order to prevent double vision.

Treatment Options

Treatment options for crossed eyes include:

Corrective glasses
Patching
Vision therapy
Surgery to adjust the eye muscles.

4. Paediatric Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

Conjunctivitis, often called pink eye, occurs when the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye becomes irritated or infected. When small blood vessels in this membrane become inflamed, the white of the eye takes on a pink or red colour, which is where the name comes from.

In children, conjunctivitis is extremely common and spreads quickly in school and childcare environments. It can be caused by:

Bacteria
Virus
An allergic reaction
An irritant like chlorine from a swimming pool.

Signs your child might be struggling with conjunctivitis include:

Red or pink colouring across the white of the eye
Discharge that crusts and seals the eye shut overnight
Persistent watering or itching that does not settle
Sensitivity to bright light

How to Find Relief

Getting the right diagnosis matters because the treatment differs quite significantly depending on the cause:

Bacterial conjunctivitis is typically treated with antibiotic eye drops.
Viral cases generally resolve on their own.
Allergic conjunctivitis requires a different approach, often antihistamine or anti-inflammatory drops.

5. Digital Eye Strain in Children

This one is a modern and fast-growing issue. Screen use has become a routine part of childhood, both at school and at home. Extended periods of close-up screen use can contribute to eye discomfort and visual fatigue.

Digital eye strain in children shows up as:

Headaches after screen time
Blurred vision
Dry or irritated eyes
Difficulty concentrating
Complaints of tired eyes by mid-afternoon.

Many parents attribute these symptoms to general tiredness or attention issues when the eyes are actually the source of the problem.

Practical Lifestyle Adjustments

A comprehensive paediatric eye examination can rule out minor, underlying vision issues that might be making digital eye strain significantly worse.

Beyond that, you can protect your child's eye health daily with a few simple lifestyle adjustments:

Parents can also help reduce digital eye strain and improve children's eye health through simple daily habits:

Enforce the 20-20-20 rule: Encourage your child to take a break every 20 minutes to look at something at least 20 feet (6 metres) away for at least 20 seconds to relax their eye muscles.
Optimise Room Lighting: Ensure the room is well-lit so their screen isn't the brightest light source in the room, which drastically reduces glare and eye fatigue.
Keep a Safe Distance: Teach your child to hold devices at "Harmon’s distance," which is roughly the distance from their elbow to their knuckles, instead of holding screens too close to their face.
Encourage Blinking: Remind them to blink fully and frequently while playing games or watching videos to keep their eyes naturally lubricated.

6. Colour Vision Deficiency (Colour Blindness)

Colour vision deficiency is a genetic issue and is present from birth. It affects around 8% of males and 0.5% of females. The most common form is difficulty in distinguishing between red and green.

Most children with colour vision deficiency can still see colors, but they perceive certain shades differently. They perceive colours differently from those with full-colour vision.

An optometrist can confirm colour vision deficiency during a routine eye examination using specialised colour plates.

How It Is Managed

The condition is not treatable, but knowing about it early allows parents, teachers, and the child to make informed adjustments, such as the following:

Selecting an alternative, non-colour-coded teaching resource
Labelling school supplies
Helping the child understand why certain things look different to them

7. Paediatric Eye Allergies and Dry Eye

Allergic eye reactions are common in children and often underestimated. Seasonal allergens like pollen, as well as year-round triggers like dust mites, animal dander, and mould, can cause the eyes to become itchy, red, and watery.

Frequent eye rubbing is common and can worsen irritation or introduce bacteria into the eyes.

Paediatric dry eye is also increasingly recognised as a real clinical issue, particularly in children who:

Spend long hours on screens
Live in dry or air-conditioned environments
Have underlying conditions that affect tear production.

How to Fix It

Treatment of eye allergies usually involves:

Allergen management
Lubricating eye drops
Using a cool compress over closed eyes
Anti-inflammatory drops prescribed by an optometrist.

How Advanced Eye Technology Helps Detect Problems Earlier

Reading a letter chart tells an optometrist whether a child can see clearly. But it does not tell them why or what is actually happening inside the eye. Modern diagnostic tools provide a much more detailed view of the eye's structure and function, helping practitioners identify issues more accurately.

Here is what makes a real difference in diagnosing paediatric problems:

Zeiss Clarus Ultra-Wide Retinal Imaging : This technology allows optometrists to examine much more of the retina than standard retinal photography. It picks up early structural changes linked to myopia that a standard camera would simply miss.
OCT Scanning : It helps clinicians examine the delicate structures inside the eye that cannot be seen during a routine eye examination. This is especially useful for children with amblyopia, strabismus, or a family history of retinal conditions.
IOL Master 500 : It measures the precise physical length of the eyeball at each visit. Because myopia progresses as the eye elongates, this method gives clinicians a clear, objective way to track progression and confirm whether treatment is actually working.
Zeiss HFA 3 Visual Field Analyser : It maps peripheral vision loss that a child would never notice or be able to describe on their own. This information is important when there is any concern about glaucoma or neurological involvement.

All these tools make it possible to catch problems well before symptoms show up, and that is precisely when treatment works best

Conclusion

Most children’s eye problems are highly manageable when they are caught early. The challenge is that children rarely self-report vision problems, which means the responsibility falls to parents and to regular professional eye examinations.

Understanding what to look for at home and knowing when to seek clinical advice makes a significant difference to long-term outcomes.

If you have noticed any of the warning signs discussed above, or if your child is due for a routine eye examination, a professional assessment is the right step to take. You can visit the team at Nazarian Optometrists in Blacktown. Our focus is on providing a gentle, welcoming environment where kids feel comfortable while we thoroughly assess their vision and visual development.

To make eye care accessible for local families, comprehensive children's examinations are bulk-billed under Medicare, and we welcome all health funds.

You can easily secure an appointment by calling the clinic or booking online.

FAQs

How often should children have a paediatric eye examination?

Most optometrists recommend annual eye examinations for school-aged children, even if no vision problem has been identified. Children already managing a condition like myopia or amblyopia may need check-ups every six months.

What happens during an infant eye exam?

An infant eye examination does not require the child to read letters or respond verbally. Optometrists use specialised techniques, including light reflexes, visual tracking assessment, and pupil responses, to evaluate eye alignment and early signs of refractive error. These examinations are non-invasive and entirely suitable for very young children.

Can a common eye illness spread between children?

Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are highly contagious and spread easily in schools and childcare settings through direct contact or touching communal surfaces. Allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious. If your child is diagnosed with infectious conjunctivitis, keep them home until symptoms resolve to reduce the risk of spread to other children.

The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Pair of Glasses

Fri, 29 May 2026 07:21:31 GMT

A pair of glasses can look perfect in the store and still become frustrating to wear a few days later. Frames that slide down constantly, feel heavy on your nose, or leave pressure marks usually have less to do with style and more to do with poor fit.

Choosing glasses works differently from choosing clothes or shoes. Your frames affect how clearly you see, how comfortable you feel during long days, and even how thick your lenses appear.

In this guide, you will learn how to select eyeglass frames for your face. We will cover everything from frame fit and face shape to prescriptions, comfort, and lifestyle needs. So, let’s get started.

Quick Summary

The best glasses frames should suit your face shape, prescription, lifestyle, and comfort needs. A good fit keeps lenses aligned properly, reduces headaches, and improves all-day wear. Smaller frames often suit strong prescriptions better, while lightweight materials and professional fitting can make glasses feel more comfortable and natural to wear.

How to Choose the Right Glasses: Important Considerations

The best glasses frames fit your daily life first. Style matters, but comfort and visual clarity matter just as much. A pair of glasses may look fantastic under store lighting and still become frustrating after a few hours at work. That usually happens when people choose frames based only on appearance. So, make sure you consider the following factors when choosing the right frame for you.

Start With How You Actually Use Your Glasses

Someone who wears glasses for 12 hours a day needs different frames from someone who only uses reading glasses at home.

For example, office workers often spend hours looking at screens under bright lighting. Heavy frames can create pressure around the nose and temples during long workdays. Anti-reflective coatings can also reduce glare from monitors and overhead lights.

So, make sure that you think about how you use your glasses in your daily routine.

Remember Your Prescription Requirements

Many people do not realise that their prescription affects which frames will feel and function best for them. Strong prescriptions often create thicker lens edges, especially in oversized frames. On the other hand, smaller frames usually help reduce edge thickness because the lens requires less material around the outside.

Progressive and multifocal lenses also require sufficient vertical lens depth to function properly. And if you use very shallow fashion frames, they can make reading zones feel uncomfortable.

Therefore, you must take a close look at your prescription before buying a pair of glasses.

Don’t Forget to Consider Your Comfort

Comfort should be your top priority when selecting between different frames. A good pair of glasses should feel stable and natural after a few minutes of wear.

If you choose a poorly fitted frame by chance, it may cause the following inconveniences:

Pressure behind the ears
Red marks on the nose
Headaches
Slipping during conversations
Cheek rubbing when smiling

When glasses slide down constantly, the lens positioning shifts too. That movement can strain your eyes throughout the day because your pupils no longer sit in the correct optical centre of the lenses.

How to Know What Glasses Look Good on You

When you're wondering, "What type of frames should I get?" you often have another question: “How do I know a frame is the right fit for me?” The rule of thumb in this regard is that the glasses should balance your facial features and feel natural with your personal style. To ensure that, here is what you need to keep in mind:

Identify Your Face Shape

The way your face actually looks matters a lot in determining the right frame for you. Here is a general guide in this regard:

Structured frames that add definition often suit softer, round faces.
Curved frames can soften strong facial lines on angular faces.
Oval faces tend to work well with a wide variety of frame styles.
For heart-shaped faces, lighter lower-frame designs often create better balance.

Still, proportions matter more than labels.

For example, someone may technically have a round face but still suit softer round frames because of their nose bridge, eyebrow shape, or personal style.

Consider Your Skin Tone, Hair Colour and Personal Style

The colour of your frames can make your glasses stand out more or blend in naturally.

Tortoiseshell frames remain popular because they work with many skin tones and feel softer than solid black frames. On the other hand, transparent or translucent frames create a lighter appearance that many people prefer for daily office wear.

Darker frames often create more definition and contrast. That works well for people who want their glasses to stand out more intentionally.

If you wear glasses every day, choose a style that fits your actual wardrobe and routine. A bold fashion frame may feel exciting in-store but end up sitting in a drawer if it clashes with everything you wear.

How Should Glasses Fit Your Face Properly?

It's also important to understand how a glasses frame actually fits your face. Let’s walk through some essential considerations for the perfect fitting of glasses.

The Numbers on Glasses’ Frames

Most glasses include three numbers printed on the inside of the arm.

For example:

52-18-140

These numbers represent:

52mm lens width
18mm bridge width
140mm temple arm length

The bridge width affects how the glasses sit on your nose. Temple length affects how securely the glasses sit around your ears. So, if you want the frame to fit perfectly, you must know the exact lengths and widths. Even small measurement differences can create comfort and vision issues.

Signs Your Glasses Fit Correctly

Good-fitting glasses should:

Sit evenly across your face.
Keep your pupils centred in the lenses.
Stay secure when you move.
Avoid touching your cheeks.
Feel balanced without pinching.

Your eyebrows should usually remain visible above or near the frame line rather than sitting awkwardly inside the lenses.

Signs Your Frame Is the Wrong Fit

Here is a clear breakdown of what happens when a frame doesn’t fit you and how you can resolve that particular issue:

What Type of Frames Should You Get for Your Prescription?

Your prescription strength affects lens thickness, frame comfort, and visual performance. Let’s learn what type of glasses you should choose based on the prescribed lens requirements.

Best Frame Choices for Strong Prescriptions

Smaller frames usually work best for strong prescriptions because they reduce lens thickness around the edges. Full-rim frames also help conceal thicker lens edges better than rimless styles.

However, high-index or super-thin lenses can reduce weight and thickness further. A recent PubMed Central report explains that prescription accuracy and lens quality both play important roles in comfortable long-term vision.

Here is a quick comparison in this regard:

Choosing Frames for Multifocal or Progressive Lenses

Progressive lenses require sufficient vertical space for the distance, intermediate, and reading zones. And, if you go for very shallow frames, they can make the transitions feel compressed. People sometimes describe the experience as “searching” for the right viewing spot.

Frames with adequate depth usually provide smoother adaptation and more comfortable reading zones. So, make sure you choose glasses with enough lens space for clear vision at every distance.

Selecting Frames Based on Material Type

Frame material affects comfort more than many people expect. Titanium frames often feel lighter during long wear. In contrast, acetate frames provide durability and a wide range of colours and finishes.

People who wear glasses from morning until night usually notice weight differences quickly. Remember, if glasses leave deep marks or feel tiring after several hours, your frame weight or balance may need adjustment.

A Simple Checklist for Picking the Perfect Glasses

Now that you know what to consider before buying a perfect pair of glasses for you, let’s combine all the findings in a simple checklist. Here are the questions you need to ask yourself before making a purchase:

Do these frames feel comfortable after several minutes?
Does the frame suit my prescription strength?
Will these glasses work for my daily routine?
Do the lenses sit centred in front of my eyes?
Do the frames slide when I smile or move?
Could I comfortably wear these for eight hours?
Does the frame style actually suit my wardrobe and lifestyle?

The Final Words

We hope that this guide has truly helped you learn how to pick the perfect glasses for you. The best glasses do more than look good in a mirror. They support a clear vision, feel comfortable during long days, and fit naturally into your life.

Good frame selection combines style, fit, prescription needs, and practical comfort. If you overlook any part, you often end up adjusting, slipping off, or avoiding their glasses altogether.

Professional guidance can make that process much easier, especially for strong prescriptions, multifocal lenses, or long-term daily wear.

At Nazarian Optometrists , we help you find the right glasses that feel comfortable from the start. Whether you need children’s frames, multifocals, or fast prescription dispensing, you can get 2 pairs of designer glasses for just A$199.

Book an eye examination or speak with the team to find glasses that genuinely suit your eyes, lifestyle, and daily routine.

FAQs

How do I know if my frames are too wide?

If the frame slides down, sits unevenly, or extends too far beyond the sides of your face, it’s not the right fit for you. Your pupils may also sit off-centre within the lenses, which can affect visual comfort.

What glass frames make lenses look thinner?

Smaller full-rim frames usually help minimise visible lens thickness. Also, high-index or super-thin lenses can reduce edge thickness for stronger prescriptions.

Are lightweight glasses better for everyday wear?

In fact, they are made for everyday wear. Lightweight glasses mean you won’t feel excessive pressure around your nose and ears. For best results, you can go for titanium and lighter acetate frames, as they commonly improve long-term comfort.

Can the wrong glasses frames cause headaches?

Wrong glasses can cause headaches because they create pressure points and incorrect lens positioning. Both issues may contribute to headaches, eye strain, and visual fatigue during long wear. So, make sure that your glasses fit you perfectly.

What glasses suit round faces best?

For round faces, structured or angular frames often feel ideal. Still, your personal style, frame size, and overall proportions matter more than rigid face-shape rules.

Is it better to buy glasses online or in person?

In-person fitting usually provides better comfort, prescription alignment, and personalised adjustments, especially for multifocals or strong prescriptions. So, you must physically visit an eye health centre near you, like Nazarian Optometrists, for the best results.

What’s the Difference Between Polarised and Non-Polarised Lenses?

jnoptometrist@gmail.com (Optometrist) — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 04:02:39 GMT

Ever wondered what’s the difference between polarised and non polarised lenses? Well, it happens.

The sunglasses aisle can be confusing. You might ask yourself, what does polarised sunglasses mean? Are they essential for eye health, or just a fancy feature?

At Nazarian Optometrists, we’re here to help you make sense of it all.

By the end of this guide, you will understand what are polarised sunglasses, how polarised lenses work, how they differ from non polarised lenses, when to choose each, and what to look for. Whether you want a pair of polarised, prescription lenses, or standard shades to protect your eyes from UV light, we're here to help you make an informed choice.

What Are Polarised Lenses?

Imagine you're driving on a sunny day. The road is blinding, your dashboard is reflecting sunlight, and the car in front has a glare that’s impossible to ignore. That harsh light is called "glare," and it's often caused by light bouncing off flat surfaces. This is where polarised lenses come in.

What are polarised lenses? In simple terms, they’re lenses with a special filter that blocks horizontal light waves, which are ones that cause glare. Vertical light still gets through, so you can see clearly, without the shine and shimmer getting in the way.

Key Benefits

Reduce glare significantly from water, snow, roads, glass, and shiny surfaces
Improve contrast and colour clarity , making scenes appear sharper
May reduce eye strain and fatigue, since your eyes do not have to work as hard in bright light
Ideal for driving at night and daytime driving , with better vision and fewer distractions
Provide comfort during long exposure to UV rays and blue light near reflective surfaces

Ideal Uses

Driving under bright skies, where road glare is a hazard
Near water for boating or fishing , so you can see beneath the surface
In high-glare snow conditions, such as skiing, where snowy environments can cause glare
In sports like cycling, golf, or running, to reduce glare from pavement or wet roads
Anywhere you spend a lot of time outside and want to protect your eyes from UV and harmful UV rays

What About Non-Polarised Lenses?

Now, just because a pair of sunglasses isn't polarised doesn't mean they're not helpful to your eyesight.

Non-polarised lenses are still tinted to reduce brightness, but they don’t have that glare-blocking filter. They simply cut down the overall light entering your eyes, which is enough for many everyday situations.

Key Benefits

Reduce overall brightness of daylight
Often come with UV protection , safeguarding from ultraviolet rays
Are generally more affordable than their polarised counterparts
Do not cause visual distortion when looking at LCD screens , phones, or GPS devices

Ideal Uses

Everyday use, walking around town or errands where glare is not extreme
When using digital devices outside, as polarised sunglasses may distort the view
Casual leisure moments like park visits or outdoor cafés
Interior-to-exterior transitions where screens need to remain visible
When you want UV protection on a budget, without needing glare reduction

How Do Polarised vs Non‑Polarised Sunglasses Compare?

Here's a quick comparison to make things simple:

The big takeaway? Polarised lenses enhance vision and comfort in bright, reflective environments. Non-polarised lenses are a great general-purpose option, especially for people who don’t often deal with glare.

If you’re still torn between the two, think about how and where you’ll wear them.

When to Choose Polarised or Non‑Polarised Lenses

And here’s something important that you need to remember: not all polarised sunglasses come with UV protection . So always check the label or ask your optometrist before buying.

How to Choose the Right Pair

1. Assess your activities

If you spend time outdoors, near reflective surfaces, skiing, boating or driving, you will benefit from wearing polarised lenses . For city walking or relaxed indoor-outdoor lifestyle, non polarised lenses might work well.

2. Think about digital screens

For people who rely on phones or GPS, non polarised sunglasses are friendlier to digital displays.

3. Check for UV protection

Always look for UV400 or wording indicating filter light up to 400nm. This detail helps block ultraviolet rays and harmful UV rays .

4. Decide on prescription

Both lens types can be made as prescription lenses , so you don’t have to compromise between vision correction and glare control.

5. Evaluate cost vs benefit

Consider if you have to spend more to gain significant visual comfort and safety. Yes, polarized glasses cost more, but their benefits often justify the price for frequent outdoor users.

6. Test before you buy

You can try them on indoors and check devices for distortion, then step outside to assess glare and comfort. You can also test by tilting sunglasses in front of a phone screen, polarized lenses will make the screen darken sharply.

So, Are Polarised Lenses Worth It?

Unfortunately, the cliche answer we can give you is that it all depends on your lifestyle because that's the truth. If you spend a lot of time outdoors like driving, walking, at the beach, or on the water, polarised sunglasses will make a noticeable difference. They protect your eyes, improve comfort, and let you see the world more clearly.

But if you’re someone who mostly wears sunglasses for short walks, while running errands, or if you rely on your phone or in-car screens often, then a non-polarised pair might suit you better.

Still unsure? Visit Nazarian Optometrists and try both options for yourself. We'll help you choose the perfect lenses based on your needs, lifestyle and budget.

Symptoms of Possible Eye Problems in Children

jnoptometrist@gmail.com (Optometrist) — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 04:02:36 GMT

Is your child struggling to see and experiencing blurred vision?

Many eye disorders in childhood go unnoticed for months (or even years) because children often assume everyone sees the world the same way they do. That’s why it’s important for parents to remain vigilant and watch out for signs of blurry vision or other eye diseases! Spotting potential problems with eyesight early can make all the difference in your child’s development, learning, and confidence.

At Nazarian Optometrists, we regularly help parents just like you catch the early signs of children’s eye problems before they become long-term issues. In this guide, you’ll learn what’s normal, what’s not, and how to recognise symptoms of common eye problems at every stage of childhood

Key Symptoms of Vision Problems in Infants and Toddlers

You don't want your child to experience permanent vision loss just because you've neglected to see the early warning signs. The earlier eye issues are identified, the easier they are to treat. Here are some red flags in babies and toddlers:

One affected eye turning inwards or outwards (strabismus)
Cloudiness or a white pupil in photos (could indicate cataracts)
Lack of eye contact or not following moving objects
Constant eye rubbing , squinting, or light sensitivity
Delayed crawling or walking , possibly due to depth perception issues

One of the most important conditions to look for is lazy eye in infants (amblyopia), where one eye becomes weaker than the other. This is most treatable in early childhood, but it often shows no clear symptoms unless you’re looking for them.

Warning Signs of Eye Conditions in Preschool and Primary School Children

As children grow, so do the signs that their vision may be off. Here’s what to watch for in kids aged 3–10:

Squinting when looking straight ahead or looking at books, screens, or faraway objects
Sitting very close to the TV or holding devices too close
Covering one eye while trying to focus
Complaints of headaches , especially after reading or writing
Avoiding reading, colouring, or detailed tasks
Clumsiness or bumping into things or poor hand-eye coordination
Tilting the head or turning it to the side when focusing

Many of these signs can be mistaken for behavioural or learning difficulties. In some cases, children with undiagnosed vision problems are even mislabelled as having attention issues. A simple eye exam can often reveal the real cause.

Common Eye Problems in Children by Age

Eye disorders in childhood can show up in different ways depending on their age. Here are the most common eye problems by age :

Infants (0–2 years): Lazy eye, congenital cataracts, blocked tear ducts
Toddlers (2–4 years): Strabismus (crossed eyes), amblyopia (lazy eye)
Primary school age (5–10 years): Myopia (short-sightedness), hyperopia (long-sightedness), astigmatism and other refractive errors

Each of these conditions affects vision differently. Types of vision problems like myopia may cause distance to appear blurry, while astigmatism can distort shapes and letters, making reading more difficult.

The good news? Most poor vision issues are treatable by prescription lenses and other corrective solutions, especially when caught early.

When to Get Your Child’s Eyes Tested

Many parents wait until a teacher notices a problem, but there’s no need to delay. Vision screenings at school aren’t always enough to catch subtle issues. If you want your child to have and retain good vision, here’s a general rule of thumb:

First test at 6–12 months old
Follow-up at age 3, then before starting school
Every two years after that , or sooner if symptoms appear

Regular check-ups are crucial, even if there are no obvious signs of trouble. Family history can also play a big role in your child's visual system so be sure to consider all factors in. Many vision issues develop slowly over time, and children may not realise anything is wrong.

What to Do if You’re Worried

If anything in this guide rings true for your child, trust your instincts. Even if the symptoms seem minor, an early exam could make all the difference. Vision problems left untreated can lead to permanent issues, but most can be managed or corrected if caught early.

At Nazarian Optometrists, we offer gentle, child-friendly eye exams that take the guesswork out of your child’s vision. Our optometrists are trained to detect all types of children’s eye problems and explain everything in clear, calm language. We also help your child get prescription glasses that match their style and face frame.

Whether you need clear lens, eye drops or other eye treatment, we're here to help you and your child.

Children's Eye Problems Should Be Treated Early!

Children don’t always know how to describe vision problems, but their behaviour often tells the story. By understanding the symptoms, acting early, and getting expert help, you can protect your child’s eyesight and give them the best chance at thriving in school, sport, and life. If you notice any eye strain or vision issues, seek help from a trusted eye specialist.

Book a children’s eye exam today with Nazarian Optometrists , because your child’s vision should never be left to chance.

Myopia Myths and Treatments for Short Sightedness

jnoptometrist@gmail.com (Optometrist) — Fri, 25 Jul 2025 12:58:27 GMT

Maybe you’ve heard that glasses will “fix” it. Or that only kids get it. Or that once it starts, it just keeps getting worse forever. These ideas sound familiar because they’re everywhere. But are they true?

At Nazarian Optometrists, we want to help you get accurate information about eye problems and vision correction. Whether you’re worried about your child’s eyesight or dealing with your own changing vision, understanding the facts can make all the difference.

In this blog, you'll learn the top myths around short-sightedness and learn treatments that are actually worth your attention, so you can make informed decisions about your or your child's eye health.

What Is Vision With Myopia Really Like?

If you’ve never experienced short-sightedness yourself, it can be hard to picture what it’s actually like. But understanding how myopia affects vision helps explain why early detection and treatment matter so much.

Seeing the World Through a Myopic Blurred Vision

People with myopia can see objects clearly up close, but things in the distance look blurred. For example, reading a book might feel fine, but road signs, classroom whiteboards, or even faces across a room can appear fuzzy or out of focus.

This happens because the eye grows too long from front to back, or the cornea (the front surface of the eye) is too curved. As a result, light entering the eye focuses in front of the retina instead of directly on it. That’s what causes the blurred distance vision.

Children often don’t realise there’s a problem. They might think it’s normal not to see the board at school or to squint at the TV. That’s why regular eye checks are so important, even if your child hasn’t said anything.

How Is This Different From Hyperopia?

While myopia affects near distance vision, hyperopia (long-sightedness) is the opposite. People with hyperopia can usually see distant objects clearly but have blurry vision with things that are near. That's why they struggle to read or do any close-up tasks.

In children, mild hyperopia often goes unnoticed because their eyes can compensate by focusing harder. But that extra effort can lead to eye strain, headaches, or even reading difficulties. This is why hyperopia treatment in children matters too, even if they seem to see well.

Understanding the difference between myopia and hyperopia can help you recognise when something isn’t quite right, whether it’s difficulty seeing far away or complaints about reading.

Top 3 Myths About Myopia

When it comes to short-sightedness, myths can be just as harmful as the condition itself. Let’s unpack the three most common misconceptions and replace them with facts that actually help.

Myth 1: Myopia Can Be Cured with Glasses or Laser Refractive Surgery

It’s easy to assume that once someone puts on glasses or has laser eye surgery, the problem is “fixed”. But here’s the truth: glasses and surgery correct your vision, but they don’t cure the condition.

Think of it like this: glasses are like crutches for a sprained ankle. They help you function, but they don’t heal the root cause. Similarly, laser surgery reshapes the front surface of the eye to improve focus, but it doesn’t stop myopia from progressing, especially if it’s done too early in life.

Myth 2: Only Kids Get Myopia (Childhood Myopia)

It’s true that most myopia starts in childhood, often between ages 6 and 14, but adults can absolutely develop or worsen myopia too.

If you’ve noticed your distance vision getting blurrier in your 20s, 30s, or even 40s, you're not imagining it. Extended screen time, less outdoor exposure, and even lifestyle stressors can all influence eye strain and myopic changes over time.

And for parents: even if your child is under 6 and hasn't shown symptoms yet, that doesn’t mean they’re in the clear. Myopia can appear suddenly and progress rapidly, especially if there are risk factors like family history.

Myth 3: Myopia Control is Impossible. It Always Gets Worse Over Time.

This one’s partly true, but also very preventable.

Yes, myopia often progresses as children grow. But thanks to modern optometry, we now have tools like glasses or contact lenses to slow or stabilise this progression. Treatments like low-dose atropine drops, ortho-k lenses worn overnight, and even encouraging more outdoor time have all been shown to help.

Without any form of intervention, myopia can worsen into high myopia, which increases the risk of serious eye conditions later in life like retinal detachment or glaucoma.

Can Myopia Be Reversed or Cured ?

This is one of the most common and important questions people ask and it's very understandable. If you or your child is near-sighted, you naturally want to know if there's a way to get myopia treated or get rid of for good.

The short answer is unfortunately, no, but there’s more to it.

Unfortunately, myopia cannot be “cured” in the traditional sense , at least not with today’s science. Once the eye has grown into a myopic shape, there’s no way to reverse it completely. That’s why the idea of simply curing it with glasses or laser surgery is misleading.

But that doesn’t mean there’s no hope. Far from it.

What About Reversal?

Some people use the term “reversing myopia” when they’re talking about Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) , a treatment where specially designed lenses are worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea. In the morning, the lenses are removed, and vision remains clear throughout the day without glasses.

This can feel like reversal, but it’s temporary. Once you stop wearing the lenses, the cornea returns to its original shape and the myopia returns.

Similarly, laser eye surgery (like LASIK) can remove the need for glasses in adults, but again, this doesn’t reverse the underlying structure of the eye — it just adjusts the cornea to redirect light properly.

What You Can Do: Treatments For Myopia Development

The real win comes from slowing or stopping myopia progression , especially in children and teens. Treatments like low-dose atropine drops, Ortho-K, or special soft contact lenses have all shown strong results in managing how quickly myopia worsens over time.

So while we can’t cure myopia (yet), we can take meaningful steps to stop it from getting worse — and that’s a major step forward.

1. Glasses and Contact Lenses

Standard glasses and soft contact lenses help correct blurry distance vision, but they don’t treat the root cause or slow progression. That said, they’re often the first step in managing short-sightedness, especially for children who need immediate help seeing clearly at school.

Newer options, like myopia control lenses , are specially designed to both correct vision and reduce the eye’s tendency to grow longer. These are available in both glasses and contact lens formats.

2. Laser Eye Surgery

Laser eye surgery is a popular option for adults with myopia who want to reduce or eliminate their need for glasses or contact lenses. The procedure works by reshaping the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye, so that light focuses correctly on the retina.

This improves distance vision significantly and can provide long-term visual freedom. However, it’s important to understand that laser surgery does not cure myopia; it simply corrects the way your eye bends light rays. It doesn’t stop progression, so it's generally recommended only for adults whose vision has been stable for at least a year.

Laser surgery is not suitable for children or teenagers, and it doesn't prevent future age-related eye changes. A thorough consultation is essential to check if you're a good candidate based on your eye health, prescription stability, and lifestyle needs.

3. Lifestyle and Behavioural Changes

Simple habits can make a real impact too. Here’s what the research supports:

More outdoor time : Children who spend at least 90 minutes a day outside are less likely to develop or worsen myopia.
Screen breaks : Follow the 20-20-20 rule — every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Good lighting : Reading or using screens in low light puts more strain on the eyes.

These changes are not treatments by themselves, but they are essential parts of an effective long-term management plan.

What You Can Do Now to Protect Your (or Your Child’s) Eye Health

By now, it’s clear that while myopia can’t be cured, there’s a lot you can do to manage it effectively. The earlier you act, the better the result, especially when it comes to protecting long-term eye health.

If it’s been more than a year since your child’s last eye check, or if they’ve never had one, now is the time. Children often don’t complain about vision problems because they don’t realise their sight is any different from anyone else’s.

Myopia is incredibly common, but it doesn’t have to be a mystery, or a worry. With the right guidance, treatments, and habits, you can take control of your or your child’s vision and protect it for the long term. You may not be able correct myopia but you can surely find a way to improve or even treat impaired vision.

If you're ready to learn more or book an appointment, the team at Nazarian Optometrists is here to help.

Children’s Eye Health: Tips & Vision Insights

Fri, 06 May 2022 07:07:53 GMT

We at Nazarian Optometry are concerned about the rising number of school aged children with short sightedness (Myopia). In our community we are seeing an increase in cases, especially if there is a family history of Myopia.

Myopia has become an almost epidemic for school age children around the world, for example the incidence are:

China 85%
South Korea 73%
Europe 43%
North America 40%

In Australia the prevalence of Myopia is about 5% and increasing, this has doubled in the last 10 years. To prevent the progression of this problem, at our practice we have been treating patients with Atropine drops for a few years.

Atropine as a pharmaceutical medication has been known for many years to reduce myopia progression; researchers found that low concentrations of atropine is effective in controlling myopia. The ATOM1 Myopia study in Singapore found with a low-dose form of atropine, there was around 50% reduction in rate of progression.

Atropine eye drops are placed in the child’s eyes once a day, at nighttime before sleep. A one-week trial is recommended to ensure no unexpected side effects. The child's usual form of vision correction; glasses and/or contact lenses — are worn. Treatment effect is monitored every 3 months. Length of treatment is typically 2 years but can vary after evaluation of its myopia control effect on the child.

In addition to Atropine treatment we advise all parents wanting to minimize the progression of short sightedness to consider the following:

Reduce unnecessary near work on digital devices such as mobile phones and iPads.
Increase outdoor activity
Don’t use LED lamps for homework but use florescent lamps.

We at Nazarian Optometrist are passionate about our work and want to assist all children in our community. Our goal is to minimize progression of short sightedness. We have specialized clinics and equipment to monitor and treat all school aged children with Atropine eye drops. We continue to bulk bill all our treatments. If you have any concerns about your child’s vision or want to prevent any worsening of their eyesight, please contact us for a bulk billed examination.

Diabetes & Eye Health: Key Insights & Tips

Sun, 13 Mar 2022 08:04:01 GMT

At Nazarian Optometry, we are passionate about our work and concerned about the prevalence of Diabetes in our community. I'm here to discuss in this newsletter, the importance of having your Diabetes assessed and the damage that it could cause to your eyes. I have been involved in setting up the C-EYE-C Clinic in Western Sydney at my premises in collaboration with Westmead Eye Hospital (the second largest Ophthalmology service in NSW) to screen and triage patient and provide a express pathway for treatment. In doing so we have won two state awards. Before I started this project there was a 9 month wait for treatment, we have reduced that now to less than 3 months, and in doing so we have reduced the cost of the eye hospital by 22%.

I want to discuss now about Diabetes and the eye disease it can cause, the following points are what I want you to consider:

Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness and visual disability.
Diabetes eye disease affects 1 in 3 people with Diabetes.
2014-2015 National Eye Survey found 28.5% of Diabetics had Diabetes eye disease and 4.5% had vision - threatening eye disease.
98% of this can be prevented.
Vision screening is essential in preventing eye disease.

People living in Western Sydney have twice the chance of having Diabetes compared to people living in Coastal or Northern suburbs, this is a huge concern to me and my practice, and it has long been known that at least 50% of Diabetics eye disease is undetected. It is projected that prevalence of Diabetes will rise between 15-45% in the coming years.

A study done at Blacktown Hospital named DR SPOC study showed that 40% of patients admitted to Blacktown Hospital had Diabetes compared to the national average of 28%, and of those 16% had vision-threatening eye disease compared to national average of 4.5%. This shows the severity of the problem in my community, and this is why we like to share this information with my patients.

At Nazarian Optometry we are passionate about our work, individuals who don't have there eyes checked are more likely to develop eye disease. At our practice we are fully equipped with the latest technology and can provide quick access to Westmead Eye Hospital to all our patients using the C-EYE-C pathway. Please if you have family history of Diabetes or feel that you're overweight, see your GP and have a HBA1c blood test to rule out diabetes, and visit Nazarian Optometrists for eye assessment, we don't charge like other practices we Bulk-Bill all our eye examinations for your convenience.

Thanks,

Joseph Nazarian

B.Optom. M.Sc.Optom.