Pediatric Eye Exams in Mountain Brook, AL
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Pediatric Eye Exams
The professional staff at Mountain Brook Eye Care in Birmingham, Alabama, is proud to offer pediatric eye exams as part of our services. Children with eye problems don’t always know how to talk about their vision or realize there is a problem with their sight, which makes an eye examination even more important.
What is a Pediatric Eye Exam?
During a pediatric eye exam, an optometrist assesses the child’s visual acuity and looks for conditions that could affect overall sight and eye health. The American Optometric Association recommends an exam for children without symptoms between 6 and 12 months, then around ages 3 and 5. After a child begins school, they should have an eye exam once per year.
What Happens During a Pediatric Eye Examination?
Pediatric eye exams are similar to adult eye exams. The optometrist gathers the necessary data to determine the health of the child’s eyes and whether or not they need vision correction. We have exciting equipment, leveraging modern technology, that captures images and precise measurements of the eyes. This helps us ensure they’re healthy and working together properly. To prepare your child for a pediatric eye examination, discuss their vision with them and explain that the doctor wants to ensure they can see clearly. We encourage children to bring a toy or comfort object during their visit if helpful. Parents will also be in the examination room with the child.
How Does the Pediatric Optometrist Test a Child’s Vision?
Our eye exams vary depending on the child’s age and how much they can understand. We use age-appropriate charts and methods to derive the child’s visual acuity. We will be able to determine whether your child needs to be fitted with glasses or benefit from other management options.
What are the Signs that a Child May Need Glasses?
Parents should look out for the following signs that your child may have a vision problem:
- Complaints of not seeing well
- Squinting
- Unusual head posture
- Difficulty with schoolwork
- Short attention span when reading
- Moving closer to objects of interest
- Headaches
- Complaints of double vision or words run together
If you notice your child has one or more of the above symptoms, schedule an eye exam so we can determine if there is a problem associated with their eyes.
Can a Child Wear Contacts if They Need Vision Correction?
Absolutely! One of the best methods for managing myopia progression (nearsightedness) in children utilizes contact lenses. Also, many kids prefer them for sports and recreation. It is important to understand that, as wonderful as contacts are, they may not be for everyone. During the exam, we will assess whether contacts are a viable option for your child.
What is the Difference between a Pediatric Eye Exam and an Adult Eye Exam?
We may use different methods to complete a pediatric eye exam due to the child’s age and t understanding, but the goal is the same as an adult eye exam. Our staff wants to ensure all patients, regardless of age, have healthy eyes and achieve their best visual acuity.
What Other Eye Care Services are Offered at Mountain Brook Eye Care?
Mountain Brook Eye Care’s pediatric eye care includes complete eye exams for children of all ages. Still, we also manage eye diseases associated with adult patients, such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration. Additionally, we are happy to offer exams for unexpected, emergency, urgent, and medical problems like vision loss, eye pain, eye infections, ocular injury, allergies, and dry eye syndrome. If you need glasses or contacts, be assured that our lenses are tailored precisely to your unique measurements. With the help of Neurolens technology, our glasses prescriptions can correct even the smallest misalignments between your eyes, resulting in enhanced comfort and reduced eye strain. Other lens options that may help you feel more comfortable include:
- Transition lenses
- UV and high-intensity light-blocking lenses
- Anti-glare lenses
- High Index lenses (thinner, lighter)
- Trivex (stronger lens material)
Our eye care center is stocked with high-quality, luxury eyeglasses to suit your needs and give you a look you’ll love.
Schedule an Optometrist Eye Exam Today
If it’s time for your child to see an eye doctor, we encourage you to contact Mountain Brook Eye Care in Birmingham, Alabama. We are an independent eye care provider with compassionate and effective services well-suited to children (and adults) of all ages. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.