Refractive Errors FAQ
Why does my child require glasses?
A child may need glasses for various reasons.
- To provide good vision. For examples- in cases of refractive errors
- To straighten the eyes when they are misaligned. For example – strabismus (squint)
- For the treatment of lazy eye or amblyopia. For example – in anisometropia
Can healthy food and vitamin supplements prevent the need for glasses?
A well – balanced diet which includes plenty of green, leafy vegetables, fresh fruits and nuts are good for your child’s eye health and overall growth. However, the need to wear glasses is not related to the diet or nutritional state of your child’s body.
What will happen if my child does not wear glasses?
If your child does not wear the prescribed glasses, normal development of vision can be affected. Eyes attain maturity by the age of 6-8 years of age. Continuous blurring of vision in one or both eyes in the early developmental period prevents the normal growth of visual system leading to amblyopia or Lazy eye.
What kind of glasses does my child need?
Plastic lens and frame are standard for children. The eye wire should cover both eye completely and the rim should not come in contact with periocular skin. The nosepads should sit symmetrically over the nose and should not be too tight or loose. There should not be any pressure on the temples.
For how long are glasses required?
Glasses are an important tool for correction of refractive error and also for overall development of the child. To deprive the child of required glasses may hamper his final visual acuity (clarity) and also reduce his awareness to the surrounding and observational skills. Clarity of vision is required all the time. That is why constant wear of glasses is mandatory.
Will my child’s power increase/reduce?
With age, refractive errors keep changing in children along with their growth. This explains why children need eye check-ups at a regular interval. While myopia increases with age as part of the body’s normal developmental process, hypermetropia may decrease.
Will my child need glasses for the rest of his/ her life?
If your child has myopia or nearsightedness, then he/she will most likely need to wear glasses for life. Contact lenses or refractive (LASIK) eye surgery are other options after your child grows up.
