Paediatric conditions

Squint or strabismus, swollen eyelids (chalazion), lazy eye and refractive error are paediatric conditions. Squint or strabismus happens when the eyes move in different directions because the extraocular muscles are out of sync. Newborns are susceptible to crossed eyes due to inadequate vision development. Sometimes, strabismus disappears as the baby develops and his or her visual system matures. But many different types of strabismus remain even as a child grows older.

Other paediatric conditions include:

Amblyopia:
Amblyopia translates to lazy eye-which means one eye doesn't receive sharp pictures as the other eye. Lazy eye arises as a result of strabismus, insufficient focusing power, droopy eyelids and cataracts.

Chalazion:
Chalazion is inflammation of the eyelids that occurs when the glands in the eyelids become blocked. The eyelids start to swell, become red and ooze pus. Chalazia may be so large that it covers the child’s pupil and affects his or her vision.

Epiphora:
Epiphora or watery eyes occurs when the duct that drains fluid (tears) from the eyes becomes clogged.

Causes

A paediatric condition such as strabismus is a result of an anatomical, refractive or neurological issue that affects the extraocular muscles and prevents binocular vision. Genetics and a family history of retinal diseases contribute to paediatric conditions.

Symptoms

• White pupils

• Discharge from the child’s eye

• One eye appears larger than the other.

• Sensitivity to light

• Eyes fail to move correctly.