Diseases of the eyes in children. Eye diseases Eye diseases in children

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye - the conjunctiva. Most often it is triggered by an allergic reaction or infection. This diagnosis becomes in a third of cases of eye pathology.

A disease may occur against the background of measles, rubella, chickenpox, and other viral diseases. Usually the symptoms are hard to miss. The eyes turn red, the eyelids swell, discharge from the organs of vision, unpleasant sensations in them are possible.

Many diseases of the human organs of vision are of a genetic nature. That is, they are due to heredity. Some of these diseases are congenital, while others develop after birth under the influence of various factors.

A specialist will never advise the use of certain drugs, in particular drops, until the causes of the ailment are determined accurately. The treatment of children should be such that little patients get better, and that no means pose a threat to their health.

Inflammation of the eye in a child is provoked by:

1. Infection - viral or bacterial.
2. Acute lack of vitamins.
3. Injuries of a thermal, mechanical or chemical nature.
4. Allergic reaction.

If there is confidence that the nutrition of children is sufficiently varied and complete, if there have never been allergic manifestations before and if the organs of vision have not been injured, then the eyes become inflamed due to the existing disease, which must be identified.

In most cases, inflammation is caused by blepharitis and conjunctivitis:

1. For blepharitis in children, such a lesion of the eyelid is characteristic, when its outer edge thickens. Scratching leads to abscesses. Kids will definitely rub their eyes with their hands. This is a common reaction to discomfort, especially in very young children. Eyelash loss and watery eyes are also observed. The eyes turn red. They get blepharitis due to lack of hygiene, in the presence of any general ailments, worms or hypovitaminosis.
2. Conjunctivitis in children, especially in newborns, is accompanied by a burning sensation, fear of bright light, itching, and redness of the conjunctiva. In this case, you should go to the ophthalmologist immediately. The disease has different origins, and only through examination it is possible to understand what form is present and how it should be treated.

Sometimes newborns can be diagnosed with subcutaneous hemorrhage of the eyelids or a benign tumor (hemangioma). After some time, the education will fade and there will be no trace of it.

Also, doctors have to deal with dacryocystitis or underdevelopment of the lacrimal canal in newborns. In the first case, there is purulent discharge.

Since each inflammation has its own clinical picture, the appropriate treatment is prescribed.

How it begins and looks, photo of the disease

How to recognize which form of the disease is your child's conjunctivitis? The symptoms of eye conjunctivitis in children are different. It depends on the causative agent of the disease.

The bacterial form is characterized by discharge of purulent contents from the eyes, lacrimation, fear of light, obvious edema, sticking of the eyelids in the morning, redness of the mucous membrane. There may be crusts on the eyelids and cilia, possibly a gritty feeling in the eyes.

With a viral form, a watery or slimy secret is abundantly secreted from the eyes. The eyelids and conjunctiva swell, which then turns red. Discomfort is observed in the organs of vision.

The general state of health suffers: fever, weakness, signs of intoxication, and sometimes an increase in lymph nodes are possible. In certain cases, inflammation spreads to the cornea, which provokes acute keratitis.

Allergic conjunctivitis usually occurs seasonally. This is the most unpleasant form that provokes burning, itching, severe photophobia, and tears. Allergy symptoms also appear on the skin - rash, urticaria.

Iridocyclitis

A very common disease, which is determined by the presence of inflammatory processes in the eyes, their anterior parts of the choroid, including the iris and the ciliary body itself. Iridocyclitis in children can be infectious, allergic, autoimmune, traumatic. Often, the disease develops among children of the older age group.

The main symptoms of iridocyclitis in children are pain in the eyes, decreased visual acuity, fear of light, increased tearing, too narrow a pupil. An ophthalmologist is involved in the diagnosis and treatment of this disease in children. Physiotherapeutic methods of therapy for iridocyclitis include electrophoresis, ultrasound therapy, diathermy and phonophoresis. In the form of drops, anti-inflammatory nonsteroidal drugs, glucocorticosteroids, antibiotics are prescribed.

Refers to an infectious ophthalmic disease. It is an inflammatory condition of the ciliary body and iris of the eye (anterior uveitis), often caused by general diseases (herpes, flu, etc.). Pathology is expressed by hyperemia of the eyeball, a change in the color of the iris, an irregular pupil, pain in the eye, temple, lacrimation, photophobia, slight deterioration of vision.

Causes of occurrence

The disease is triggered by certain causal factors:

• neglect of the rules of eye hygiene while reading or studying;
• long stay at the computer or watching TV;
• hereditary factors suggesting the presence of diseases in the parents;
• injuries and other injuries of a mechanical nature;
• abuse of certain groups of drugs.

Determining the causative factor that caused the disease is half the success in the therapeutic process.

When children develop various eye diseases, it is important to immediately pay attention to their symptoms. To do this, parents need to know the warning signs, when they appear, they will definitely need to undergo treatment. For example, there is dry eye syndrome, in which the cornea and conjunctiva are not sufficiently hydrated. Even 50 years ago, this syndrome was a problem only for adults, but now it is also observed in preschoolers.

Their characteristic manifestations can be noted:

1. Burning and stinging sensations.
2. Increased photophobia, which makes it unpleasant for the child to be in rooms with bright light and on the street.
3. Constant eye fatigue.
4. Blurred vision.
5. The appearance of a capillary network in the protein area.

The therapy is carried out using special moisturizing drops and gels. In this case, you will have to understand the reasons for this phenomenon. Perhaps the air in the room is too dry, the eyes are under constant strain, there is an allergy or infection. The doctor may advise you to change lenses to glasses, humidify the air, and also begin to fight the underlying disease. For allergies, antihistamines are recommended, and it is also important not to come into contact with the allergen.

Uveitis is an inflammatory process that affects the iris and choroid. It occurs when bacteria appear. It often serves as a sign of rheumatism, infection, tuberculosis, arthritis and other severe pathologies.

Symptoms:

1. Increased lacrimation.
2. Intolerance to bright light.
3. Blurred vision.
4. Swelling of the century.
5. Sharp and severe pain that occurs only in acute form.
6. Redness of the organ.

At an early stage, the doctor prescribes anti-inflammatory drugs, for example, special drops. In advanced cases, injections are needed, which are performed in the lower eyelid area. As a last resort, an operation is performed.

There are other equally common pathologies that can be distinguished:

1. Chaliazion. An inflammatory process of the cartilage occurs due to blockage of the sebaceous gland. The optic organ swells, turns red, and a pea-shaped neoplasm appears on the skin. Mostly the disease appears at the age of 5 to 10 years. For treatment, drops, massage and warming are used.
2. Color blindness. There is a lack of color cones in the eye area. Different colors may not be recognized, because it all depends on what exactly is missing. It is diagnosed in boys, with the feature most often of a congenital nature.
3. Blepharitis It is observed in preschoolers, and with it there is an inflammatory process of the eyelid from the edge. This is explained by thin skin and a lack of fat. Pathology is often confused with chalazion and barley, since the symptoms are similar. The child will complain of pain, itching and swelling in the affected area. The pathological process is provoked by viruses, ticks and bacteria. The treatment regimen is determined depending on what exactly led to the development of the disease.

In a normal state, the tear fluid includes a large number of immunological protective factors. But if the body has to face strong attacks of infectious agents, local immunity is weakened, infection is possible. In children, the immune system has not yet strengthened, so they are more likely to experience inflammation.

The second most common is viral conjunctivitis. It often manifests itself against the background of existing viral diseases. There is an allergic form - a consequence of an allergic reaction to irritants: food, medicinal, household, dust, vegetable.

Highlighting the causes of eye disease in children, indicate:

• heredity;
• congenital diseases such as volvulus of the eyelids;
• eye strain;
• allergic diseases;
• different types of injury.

There are frequent cases when infectious eye diseases are diagnosed in children, provoked by pathogenic microorganisms. Among them:

• Conjunctivitis. Emergence inflammation of the mucous membrane is provoked by bacteria, some viruses, fungi (much less often). Sometimes allergicconjunctivitis. The reason development of the disease can become: banal hypothermia, colds, often decreased immunity, dirty hands. The disease is dangerous with complications in the form of corneal opacity, and then a decrease in vision. In weakened babies, the infection can provoke meningitis or otitis media.
• Blepharitis itinflammation the ciliary edges of the eyelids, which are provoked by bacteria, viruses, and also fungi. There is allergic blepharitis. The risk of developing an inflammatory process increases: improperly organized hygienic care, a significant weakening of the immune system, usual hypothermia.
• Barley ... It is an inflammation of the hair follicle on the eyelid. Provoked by Staphylococcus aureus. It often signals a decrease in the child's immunity, endocrine disorders, the presence of chronic diseases, helminthic invasion.

The causes of inflammatory eye diseases in children are few and well known. Allocate:

• infectious inflammation;
• traumatic injury;
• exposure to aggressive substances (alkalis, acids).

It is worth distinguishing between true inflammation and simple redness, for example, from smoke, wind, bright light, which will pass on its own.

Children's eye diseases have their own causes, which depend on the specifics of the disease.

1. Congenital eye diseases in children. Causes:
   • various types of genetic abnormalities in the development of the eye,
   • intrauterine pathologies, infections,
   • lack of vitamins,
   • unfavorable ecology.
2. Acquired (infectious and viral) eye diseases in children. Causes:
   • inflammation of the membranes of the eye,
   • an allergic reaction to any irritant,
   • an infectious agent in the eye,
   • a burn or injury to the eye
   • large visual loads,
   • poor lighting when reading, spending most of the time at a computer or TV.

To prevent further deterioration of vision, it is necessary to consult an ophthalmologist. It is he who will identify what eye diseases in children and, depending on the specific case, write out a treatment plan.

· Caused by various viral and infectious diseases (influenza, toxoplasmosis, etc.), metabolic disorders of the mother during pregnancy;

· Hereditary transmission of some visual defects (reduction in the size of the eyes, cataracts, etc.);

Sometimes caused by congenital benign brain tumors (such disorders do not appear immediately).

Intracranial and intraocular hemorrhages, head trauma during childbirth and at an early age of the child;

· Due to increased intraocular pressure;

· Against the background of a general somatic weakening of the child's health;

· Premature infants with retinopathy (decreased sensitivity of the retina), in which total blindness often occurs.

The cause of optic nerve atrophy can be both hereditary and acquired anomalies. Sometimes there can be several factors that cause visual impairment.

The first of the causes of congenital eye diseases in a child is heredity. If parents and relatives are faced with visual pathologies, then there is a great risk that the child may suffer from this problem. Often, the age and state of health of the parents, their lifestyle are associated with congenital vision pathologies.

The reason for such consequences can also be environmental factors, many are worried about eye diseases, their treatment and the ability to get sharp and full vision. Air pollution, the impact of an unfavorable climate on a pregnant woman, her emotional instability in the process of carrying a child, radiation and the like.

Ophthalmologists for congenital eye diseases in children also name serious illnesses suffered by a pregnant woman, taking drugs and food harmful to the fetus in the list of reasons. Bad habits and drugs during a woman's “interesting situation” can also cause such an outcome of events. Heavy, difficult and prolonged labor can affect the quality of the newborn's vision.

The emergence is often facilitated by group stay in children's educational institutions. In some cases, a child with subtle signs of the disease continues to attend kindergarten, being a source of infection for other members of the team. Other factors that aggravate the spread of this disease:

• poor hygienehands, lack of sanitization of toys and other household items;
• dry indoor air;
• too bright light;
• weakening of immunityagainst the background of frequent illnesses;
• violations in the daily routine and supply errors.

Vision Difficulties Requiring Corrective Lenses

Of all the senses, the newborn's organs of vision are the least developed, but this does not prevent parents, as soon as the child is born, immediately ask: "Does he see me?"

• barley;
• abscess or phlegmon of the eyelids;
• subperiosteal abscess;
• phlegmon of the orbit;
• insect bites;
• allergic edema;
• conjunctivitis;
• keratitis;
• air emphysema;
• foreign body in the conjunctival sac;
• dacryoadenitis, dacryocystitis;
• tumors;
• meningocele.

Types of childhood conjunctivitis and classification of the ICD 10 code with psychosomatics

There are several types of conjunctivitis disease:

• Viral. It is caused by various viral infections, as well as neglect of personal hygiene rules.

The most common herpetic conjunctivitis. It affects the mucous membranes of the mouth and eyes. It may not appear immediately, but be present in the human body for several months. Children often have to treat this type of disease due to the change of milk teeth. The disease is characterized by the formation of small wounds in the oral cavity.

• Bacterial. Bacteria that get on the mucous membrane can damage it. Causative agents of the disease: staphylococci, chlamydia, streptococci... In children, this type of conjunctivitis appears due to constant games on the street, swimming in various bodies of water and non-observance of hygiene rules. Symptoms include severe swelling of the eyes and cheeks, fever, redness of the eyelids... After a few days, the eyelids are difficult to open, and pus is released from them. At the slightest symptom, you should consult a doctor.
• Allergic. The disease occurs due to an allergic reaction. Often occurs in people with chronic rhinitis, asthma, or dermatitis... The disease can be triggered even by small particles of dust, dirt on the cornea of \u200b\u200bthe eye. The first symptoms are slight swelling of the eyelid, severe tearing... Some children experience severe itching and burning.

Chlamydial, fungal and contact conjunctivitis are less common. All of them are caused by fungal infections affecting the mucous membranes, and as a disease belongs to ICD 10 on psychosomatics. Typical symptoms: redness and the formation of purulent blisters. With the wrong therapy, these inflammatory processes can develop into chronic diseases and accompany a person throughout his life.

Types of diseases of the organs of vision

First of all, the number of problems arising on the "patch" of the body the size of an average walnut is striking. So, in the current International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10), the ophthalmological section contains more than three hundred (!) Nosological definitions, and at least there is no way to list them here. Therefore, all diseases are usually reduced to large groups or classes organized according to one or another characteristic. For example, sometimes a syndromological criterion is used: they distinguish acute, acute purulent, chronic diseases, etc.

Other classifications are based on etiopathogenetic criteria, i.e. on the direct causes and mechanisms of the disease: infectious, traumatic, genetic, dystrophic, etc. Thirdly, the affected element, tissue or structure of the visual system is taken as a basis: diseases of the lens, retina, conjunctiva, sclera, eyelids, eye muscles, lacrimal glands, etc. .d. Popular science classifications usually emphasize the dominant symptomatology, for example, "redness", "double vision", "irritation", etc.

Let's try to understand this frightening abundance, highlighting the most common types of ophthalmic pathology.

First of all, this is a decrease in visual acuity and / or quality due to refractive anomalies (ametropia) - myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism. It is known that when light passes through the transparent optical media of the eye (cornea, lens, vitreous body), the image must be focused, without losing brightness and intensity along the way, on the most sensitive macular region of the retina, which provides clear central vision. However, for many reasons, the focal point either shifts behind the retina, or does not reach it, or cannot be collected at all in one place (astigmatism).

It probably wouldn't be a big mistake to include in this context one of the most serious complications of ametropia - lazy eye syndrome, or amblyopia. This is the name of a pathological condition when a worse seeing eye begins to be perceived by the brain as a hindrance, as a source of a distorted and obviously unsuitable visual signal - and therefore is gradually excluded from the process of constructing a visual image, i.e.

Children's eye diseases can appear in newborns, and in children under one year old, and in preschool children, and in children of school age. Children's eye diseases can appear in newborns, and in children under one year old, and in preschool children, and in children of school age.

The following diseases are especially common:

1. Diseases of the eyelids:
   • ankyloblepharon is a pathological disease that is a fusion of the edges of the eyelids;
   • blepharitis is an inflammatory process of the edges of the eyelids;
   • barley is an inflammation of the hair follicle of the eyelashes, a purulent formation.
2. Conjunctival diseases:
   • conjunctivitis is an inflammatory process in the mucous membrane of the eye;
   • xerophthalmia is a pathology in which the level of hydration of the mucous membrane and cornea is disturbed;
   • corneal disease;
   • keratitis is a pathology characterized by clouding of the cornea;
   • corneal dystrophy is a pathological process in which the sensitivity of the cornea decreases.
3. Lens diseases:
   • cataract, in which the lens loses its transparency, becomes cloudy;
   • aphakia is a disease in which the lens is missing.
4. Retinal diseases:
   • rhinitis is an inflammatory process in the retina of the eye;
   • retinal detachment - the process by which the retina is detached from the tissues.
5. Diseases of the muscles of the eye:
   • strabismus is a deviation of the visual axis from the fixation area;
   • myopia or myopia is a violation of refraction, in which objects in the distance are poorly visible;
   • farsightedness or hyperopia is a violation of refraction, when the rays of light are focused not on the retina, but behind it;
   • astigmatism is a pathology in which the cornea or lens acquires an atypical curve, and not a spherical shape.

Since there are a lot of pathologies affecting the organs of vision, for ease of diagnosis, doctors have divided them into several types. This division greatly facilitates the selection of effective treatment.

It is worth noting that the most common diseases of an inflammatory nature are barley, blepharitis and conjunctivitis. On the second place in frequency of detection are diseases that change visual acuity: myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism and presbyopia.

The most dangerous are glaucoma, cataracts and retinal dystrophy. These pathologies very often cause complete loss of vision.

• bacterial;
• viral;
• allergic;
• adenoviral.

With the bacterial form of the disease, purulent discharge is present. They can be insignificant, accumulating in the lacrimal tubules, or profuse, then the patient after sleep has difficulty opening his eyes. Characteristic yellowish crusts appear on the eyelashes, the eyes may itch a lot.

Photo 1. A child with signs of bacterial conjunctivitis. There is a large amount of purulent discharge in the eyes.

Viral conjunctivitis manifests itself through redness and discomfort in the eyes. The patient complains of poor health, he has a fever and other signs characteristic of ARVI. Purulent discharge is initially absent; instead, there may be constant liquid discharge, like tears.

With conjunctivitis of an allergic nature, the eyes turn red, there is a burning sensation and itching. In this case, there is no discharge.

With the adenoviral form, the disease is accompanied by manifestations of pharyngitis.

The eye is an organ made up of different tissues and particles that perform a variety of tasks. By the definition of inflammation of the eye, we mean a variety of inflammatory currents. Various inflammations affect the constituent parts of the eye. For example, inflammation of the eyeball itself is noticeable by the reddening of the connective tissues of the organ. Also, inflammatory processes capture the area around the eye - these are the eyelids, which causes discomfort and discomfort.

There is an international classification of diseases in terms of ophthalmology. Types of diseases of the visual organs:

• pathological processes in the eye socket, lacrimal ducts and eyelids,
• conjunctival disease
• ailments that develop in the cornea, sclera or iris,
• disruption of the lens,
• vascular and retinal damage,
• damage to the vitreous body or eyeball,
• pathological process of the eye muscles,
• impaired functioning of nerves and visual pathways,
• visual disturbances and blindness,
• glaucoma.

In addition to the presented classification, all types of diseases in terms of ophthalmology can be of infectious and non-infectious origin. The cause of inflammation is fungi, bacteria, and microbes. Infections most often lead to ailments such as blepharitis, barley, and conjunctivitis.

The pathology of the orbit is such diseases as its deformation, acute or chronic form, inflammation of its tissues, exophthalmos, enophthalmos, injury and other diseases of this part of the human visual organ. The eyelids can be affected by blepharitis, dermatoses of various origins, inflammation, hordeolum and chalazion. Lacrimal duct lesions include: epiphora, dacryodenitis, duct stenosis, and so on.

The main pathology of the conjunctiva is its inflammation. Inflammation of this tissue is called conjunctivitis. The disease occurs as a result of exposure to various factors, and is characterized by redness of the mucous membrane, itching, swelling and other symptoms. If conjunctival hyperemia occurs, then this is an alarming condition, since it can indicate many disorders in the visual organs. Inflammation of the conjunctiva is divided into three groups, these are infectious lesions, damage due to exposure to allergens and degenerative diseases.

Among the pathologies of the cornea, the following diseases are distinguished:

• keratitis,
• defeat by the herpes virus,
• corneal dystrophy,
• tumors.

1. keratoconus, which can be acquired, and as a result of which a person gradually loses his sight;

2. keratoglobus, which leads to protrusion of the entire cornea;

3. keratotorus - congenital toric form of the cornea;

4. megalocornea, which can also be congenital or acquired;

5. microcornea - a decrease in the horizontal diameter of the cornea.

Pathologies of the lens of the eye cause cataracts. Cataract is damage to the optic organ, which leads to clouding of the lens, the substance that is in it, or capsules. With this ailment, a person's vision will significantly deteriorate.

The main retinal lesions are divided into the following types:

• diabetic retinopathy,
• macular degeneration,
• detachment,
• retinal vascular disease,
• tears and peripheral degeneration.

Oculomotor nerve disorders:

• ventrolateral strabismus,
• ptosis,
• poor adduction of the eye in the horizontal plane.

Dysfunction of the nerves of the optic organs is a disease of optic neuritis and retrobulbar neuritis.

Disorders of visual function include amblyopia, subjective visual disturbances, diplopia, night blindness, visual disturbances, and complete blindness. Glaucoma is a disease in which the retina and optic nerve are damaged. Glaucoma without treatment leads to complete loss of vision.

Cataract in newborns

We found that babies of any age are prone to developing inflammatory eye diseases. This is a fairly large group of pathological conditions of the visual organs, in which inflammatory processes develop in the structures of the eye, as well as on the eyelids, in the lacrimal apparatus.

Features of the treatment of eye diseases depend on the causes and nature of the inflammation. In the treatment of inflammatory processes on the visual organs, antibacterial and antiviral drops, ointments, as well as combined agents, antihistamines are used. The choice of a specific medicine is determined by the localization and nature of the inflammation. Therefore, self-treatment of eye diseases in children is unacceptable, since it can have serious negative consequences for vision.

To prevent infection from entering the child's eyes, it is necessary to thoroughly wash the crumbs' hands, as well as increase his immunity and eliminate foci of infection in the internal organs. If even minimal signs of eye inflammation appear, the child should be shown to an ophthalmologist.

Eye diseases that are accompanied by a decrease in vision in children (astigmatism, myopia, strabismus and others) also require early diagnosis and timely correction with the use of glasses.

In order to prevent visual impairments, it is important to saturate the child's diet with foods high in vitamins, adhere to the daily routine, and not let the baby sit at the computer for a long time, in front of the TV. It is useful to do eye exercises with your child.

Do not forget that most of these diseases are treatable only in childhood, since age-related changes in the visual organs often become irreversible.

Take care of your children and be healthy!

Especially for nashidetki.net- Nadezhda Vitvitskaya

Diseases of the eyes in children have in their extensive list a large number of pathological processes that arise in connection with psychological, physiological and anatomical factors, therefore, the methods of treatment differ and vary. Some tactics are based on the use of a therapeutic process through medication, and some of them imply the need for surgery or hardware-based eye treatment in children. In young patients, many doctors note the effect after the use of apparatus therapy.

No matter how hard the parents put in to protect the child from external dangers, eye diseases still manifest themselves. But there are pathologies that are most common in young patients, so in terms of therapy there is a “beaten track” that facilitates the healing process.

It's no secret that the body of children is actively formed up to 10-12 years old, after which it acquires a more or less familiar organization for a person regarding anatomy. Vision in this regard was no exception, so the presence of minor problems with it in childhood can be considered normal.

Naturally, if the pathology is not of a serious nature and manifests itself only in minor violations of visual function. As a rule, they completely disappear by the age of 10-15 and do not cause any discomfort to the baby.

However, the situation described above does not take place in every case when a child complains of poor eyesight. It should be understood that it is unacceptable to exclude real eye dysfunction. In children, as in adults, eye pathologies are divided into two large groups:

• Congenital, that is, observed at the time of the birth of the baby.
• Acquired, which began to develop during the life of the child.

Due to the young age of the children, they most often have congenital eye diseases. According to official statistics from ophthalmology, such vision pathologies are observed in 30% of preschoolers and are diagnosed precisely at the age of 7-8 years.

As for the essence of acquired eye ailments, they practically do not appear in preschoolers and are often detected in children in the age group from 7 to 14 years old. The appearance of these vision pathologies is associated either with eye injuries, or with adverse effects on them from environmental factors (TV, gadgets, incorrect reading, etc.).

Regardless of the nature of eye diseases in children, it is important to treat them in a timely manner and in full, since such a measure often helps to give a person good vision for the rest of his life. If you ignore the treatment of pathology or carry it out in the wrong format, you can give the child tremendous discomfort in further life or even make it impossible to see.

Young children, due to their age or some lack of intelligence, often cannot convey to their parents that they have a visual impairment.

Given this nuance, mothers and fathers should constantly monitor their children in order to timely identify the presence of certain pathologies and organize their therapy by contacting a doctor.

Eye diseases in babies have more than characteristic signs, so it will not be difficult for any parent to determine the possibility of their presence. As a rule, symptoms of vision problems in a baby are one of the following:

• frequent blinking and "grating" of the eyes;
• the constant desire of the baby, when focusing his vision on objects, either to move closer to them, or, on the contrary, to move away;
• systematic headaches and moodiness in a child;
• unwillingness on his part to read, draw or play with small toys;
• the inability of the baby to see things;
• the presence of pronounced defects in the structure of the eye or both eyes.

Having noticed one or a couple of the signs described above in their child, any parent should be alert and show it to a professional ophthalmologist.

Impairment of the quality of vision is one of the reasons for delayed development of children in the first years of life. If vision suffers in preschoolers, they cannot properly prepare for school, their range of interests is limited. Schoolchildren with low vision are associated with a decrease in academic performance and self-esteem, a limitation of the opportunity to practice their favorite sport, and to choose a profession.

The child's visual system is at the stage of formation. It is very flexible and has enormous reserve capabilities. Many diseases of the organs of vision are successfully treated precisely in childhood, if they are diagnosed in a timely manner. Unfortunately, treatment that is started later may not work well.

In case of refractive disorders in children (myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism), as well as strabismus and amblyopia, most ophthalmologists prescribe courses of apparatus treatment, which have a good effect. If earlier for this little patients and their parents had to visit the clinic, spending time on the road and queues (and sometimes nerves and money), now, with the development of technology, a number of effective and safe devices have appeared that can be used at home. The devices are small, affordable and easy to use.

As already mentioned, various pathologies often appear in childhood, some of which are congenital. Regardless of the cause of the appearance, it is important to consult with an ophthalmologist in order to improve the well-being of the minor. We can name the most common diseases in schoolchildren that require medical attention.

1. Myopia. This is a visual impairment in which a person can see only those objects that are close. Often, the deviation develops between the ages of 8 and 14, which is associated with excessive eye strain, as well as with active growth. The patient will have to wear glasses equipped with diffusing lenses.
2. Hypermetropia. A minor can only see objects that are in the distance. Close-up objects appear blurry. Mostly the deviation appears before the age of 10 years. Symptoms include headaches and eye fatigue. To improve the condition, a person has to wear glasses with plus lenses.
3. Strabismus. In children, one or both eyes deviate from the normal fixation currents. That is, they will not be looking in the same direction. The disease appears due to a one-sided decrease in visual function, nerve damage and refractive errors. With strabismus, surgery is often prescribed, which is often performed at the age of 3 to 5 years.
4. Astigmatism. The patient suffers from distortion of objects that are located at any distance. The disease is corrected with glasses with cylindrical lenses.
5. Amblyopia. There is a decrease in vision in the eye that is not used due to deviation to the side. Gaps may appear if initially one side sees worse. Treatment requires training the affected organ to improve its function.

Children have other eye diseases, and some of them can be quickly eliminated. For example, it is easy to fight conjunctivitis caused by viruses, bacteria and allergens. In this case, the eye will turn red, itchy, and a burning sensation. The disease appears at any age, while therapy is prescribed depending on the cause of the disease.

The first signs of childhood illness

Older children may develop vision problems - loss of clarity, blurring, general deterioration, burning, discomfort, sensation in the mucous membrane of a foreign body. In the presence of such signs, it is important to show the child to a doctor and start adequate therapy.

• constant tearing;
• redness of the cornea;
• itching, burning;
• swelling;
• sensitivity to light;
• suppuration in the eyes;
• appearance in the organs of vision yellowish mucus;
• foreign body sensation on the mucous membrane of the eye.

Treatment of the disease depends on the type and causes of childhood conjunctivitis.

It becomes lethargic or, conversely, restless, there may be a decrease in appetite. If the disease is of a viral origin, the patient is likely to have a fever.

During the examination of the child, parents may assume that he has conjunctivitis on the following grounds:

• redness and swellingeye;
• itching, burning, or pain In eyes;
• uncontrolled appearance tear fluid;
• blind eyelids after sleep;
• light yellow or yellow-green discharge from one or both eyes.

Nevertheless, in the first days of a child's life, an ophthalmological examination is very important, which will detect visual impairments and diagnose the most common pathologies in infants: conjunctivitis and strabismus (strabismus).

The presence of a congenital cataract is established during the first examination of the child by a pediatrician, but if strabismus is also found during the first year of a child's life, an ophthalmologist's consultation is necessary. It is necessary to systematically visit an eye doctor in cases where the parents themselves had vision problems in childhood, especially at the age of 1-2 years.

Even if you are convinced that your child can see well, it is very important to show him to an ophthalmologist, at least before he goes to school, where the burden on vision will increase.

Symptoms and treatment of childhood eye diseases

It is not for nothing that a visit to an ophthalmologist is a must for all children.

And this is necessary at different ages.

Parents should be attentive to this issue and periodically consult an ophthalmologist for preventive purposes. Most diseases tend to progress quickly, and with certain symptoms, referral to a specialist is mandatory, among them:

• double vision;
• violation of coordination of movements;
• complaints related to eye fatigue;
• squinting;
• dizziness caused by eye strain;
• the ability to read only for a short time;
• one eye wanders;
• frequent blinking;
• the child's desire to cover his eyes with his hand;
• hand-eye coordination is impaired.

An experienced doctor will accurately diagnose the disease and prescribe the necessary therapy. Corrective glasses are often practiced. Parents can be offered education of the child in a special school, where the necessary exercises are done to restore vision.

Children's eye diseases have a number of symptoms. As soon as they appear, you should make an appointment with an optometrist for a comprehensive examination and diagnosis.

1. Itching, swelling, whitish discharge from the eye and redness indicate the appearance of conjunctivitis in the child. In newborns, this disease occurs quite often. There are several types of conjunctivitis with different symptoms:
   • allergic appears due to irritants. They can be plant pollen, dust, and household chemicals;
   • viral is characterized by redness of the eyes, their swelling, tearing. This type of disease appears due to coxsackie viruses, herpes, enteroviruses, adenoviruses;
   • bacterial occurs due to the contact with the transparent tissue covering the eye, bacteria and microbes. As a result, the child has purulent discharge from the eyes and redness.
2. Newborns may have white or yellow scales on the eyelashes, redness and swelling of the eyelids. This is inflammation of the eyelid margins caused by bacteria or mechanical damage. This disease is called blepharitis.
3. Constant tearing, mucous discharge with pressure and redness of the eyes in newborns may indicate the appearance of a disease such as dacryocystitis, when the lacrimal sac at the inner corner of the eye becomes inflamed.
4. If in children under one year old there is an increase in the anterior part of the eye, corneal opacity, lacrimation and spasms of the eyelids, then this may be congenital glaucoma and should be immediately followed consult an ophthalmologist.

This is not a complete list of symptoms of eye diseases. However, the symptoms listed above are observed in almost all eye diseases.

Inflammation of the eye in a child is determined by general symptoms that are similar in almost all diseases. The main symptoms of inflammatory eye diseases:

• redness of the eye;
• severe tearing;
• swelling of the eyelids;
• profuse discharge from the eye;
• burning and itching;
• the presence of pus;
• photosensitivity;
• painful sensations;
• the discomfort;
• increased body temperature;
• deterioration of vision.

Children's eye diseases are characterized by certain symptoms. The appearance of itching, edema, white discharge from the eye area indicates the initial manifestations of conjunctivitis. A similar disease often occurs in newborn babies. There are varieties of conjunctivitis that differ from each other in certain symptoms. The allergic process is formed against the background of external stimuli. Allergens in this case are dust, plants and chemicals.

Viral inflammations are characterized by redness of the eyeball, swelling, and regular tearing. The virus provokes infections of various origins. Bacterial conjunctivitis occurs when microbes enter the tissue that covers the eye area. As a result, children experience purulent discharge and redness. Babies show white discharge on the eyelashes, redness of the eyes, and swelling of the eyelids.

• increased lacrimation;
• hyperemia of the conjunctiva;
• swelling of the eyelids;
• eye pain or sensation of the presence of a foreign body;
• blepharospasm;
• high fever (in the presence of a general infection);
• fear of light.

In young children, the infection can be recognized by frequent crying, restless behavior, and trying to rub their eyes with their hands.

As a result of thickening of the conjunctiva, a slight decrease in vision may be observed, with adequate treatment, the function is immediately restored.

Diagnostics

Suppose the need to show the child to an ophthalmologist has been confirmed. What will await the baby in the future? Definitely, it's okay. In general, he, together with his mom or dad, will have to visit the clinic once or twice and go through the following diagnostic stages:

• An examination, during which the specialist will try to identify visible defects in the eyes or the possibility of their presence.
• Taking anamnesis, during which the ophthalmologist will search for all kinds of information about the appearance and course of pathology in the baby. Here the greatest role is played by a conversation with the child's parents and, if possible, with him. In the process of collecting anamnesis, it is important for the doctor to find out the moment of the onset of the disease, its symptoms, the baby's predisposition to the development of eye pathologies and other information that can potentially be useful in diagnosing the disease or organizing its therapy.
• Passing some examinations, the need for which was confirmed or indicated during examination and taking anamnesis. As a rule, diagnostics of the internal structure of the eyes, their refractive function and other qualitative characteristics of the organ are prescribed.

As a result of the implementation of these measures, the child will most likely be given an accurate diagnosis, according to which a specific course of therapy will be prescribed. Fortunately, modern technologies help to identify dysfunctions in all parts of the eye or its individual functions as accurately as possible, which makes it possible to organize the most effective treatment of diseases.

To confirm or deny their doubts about the child's health, parents can initially independently test the baby's eyesight. For example, a baby under one year old should react to bright light and fix a gaze on it; at 7-8 months, a baby is able to react to familiar impressions. At three years old, a test is used to recognize the figures in the picture. If the child is older, you can ask to write the letter E on the chalkboard in different positions. However, regular visits to the doctor are required.

The doctor identifies eye diseases in children using special diagnostic methods. At the initial appointment, the doctor interrogates and collects all the patient's complaints. Then a comprehensive examination of the eyes is carried out, with the help of special tables, visual acuity is checked. The ophthalmologist can also use a more complex examination for an accurate diagnosis.

Diagnostics types:

• intraocular pressure check;
• slit lamp examination of the cornea, iris, vitreous body, anterior chamber of the eye;
• examination of corneal tissue using a microscope;
• examination of the photosensitivity of the retina;
• study of the choroid by introducing fluorescein into the blood;
• laser scanning to check the condition of the optic nerve head.

It is important to know that early diagnosis of congenital vision pathology in a child avoids complications, which, in turn, can lead to unpleasant consequences, including blindness. If congenital eye diseases are detected in children, such as cataracts or glaucoma, the problem is promptly solved in 70% of cases in the early stages.

However, after the performed operation, the treatment of the disease (pathology) does not end. The child grows and his body changes, including his visual system. You need to be especially attentive to the child's eyesight during adolescence, when the body is undergoing especially active hormonal changes. Thus, you can provide preventive examinations with an ophthalmologist at our clinic, but you must strictly adhere to all the recommendations that were given to them.

Eye disease in a child is determined by the doctor only after a complete diagnosis. At the first examination, all information about the patient is collected. A comprehensive examination of the fundus is carried out using specialized equipment. To establish an accurate diagnosis, it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive examination. The intraocular pressure is carefully checked. A slit lamp is used to examine the cornea, iris, vitreous humor, and anterior chamber of the eye.

As part of the diagnosis, anamnesis collection, laboratory and ophthalmological examinations are shown, if necessary, an examination by an allergist-immunologist is shown. Direct eye examination includes external examination of the organs of vision, examination with side illumination, biomicroscopy.

An approximate etiological diagnosis is carried out using a cytological examination of a conjunctival smear; serological, immunological, virological, bacteriological studies will help to deliver the final verdict.

Principles of treating eye diseases in children

An important component of treatment is the treatment of the conjunctival area with antiseptic solutions.

As a quick measure, 0.3% Levomycetin solution and 20% Albucid solution can be used. You need to drip them three times a day into the inner edge of the organ of vision. This is the only measure that you can take on your own, before the visit of a specialist. The use of other medicines is not recommended.

Drops are widely used in the treatment of inflammation of the conjunctiva. Usually these are the same drugs that are used for adults, but the frequency of administration is different. However, the specific treatment plan is selected by the doctor individually.

A number of drugs are allowed for children from a certain age. If Torbex and Floxal can be used in newborns, then drops such as Opatanol are allowed for children over three years old.

Regardless of the drops used, it is worth adhering to a specific scheme. The product should be slightly warmed to room temperature so as not to provoke discomfort. Use a pipette with a rounded end to prevent injury to the eye.

It must be disinfected before each use. Lay the child on his back. Gently pull the lower eyelid down and add the required number of drops. Let the baby lie down for five minutes so that the medication is evenly distributed over the eye.

You cannot rub your eyes at this time. It is necessary to continue the instillation procedures after recovery for several more days.

For allergic conjunctivitis, ointments are rarely used. The basis of treatment is antihistamines: Diazolin, Fenistil, Loratadin, which help get rid of unpleasant symptoms.

The first symptoms of most diseases up to a year are:

• the appearance of strabismus;
• slow tracking of a moving object or its complete absence;
• discharge that can accumulate on the eyelids, in the corners of the eyes;
• redness of the tunica albuginea.

As a rule, the impaired function is restored with adequate treatment. Therefore, you should not postpone visiting a doctor and self-medicate. In the ZIR clinic 100%, after consultation, the doctor will offer the most painless and informative examination. The necessary treatment and surgical intervention are carried out by high-class specialists.

Children's eye diseases can only be cured by an ophthalmologist after a complete examination and an accurate diagnosis. Self-medication is not only ineffective but also dangerous. With an independent choice to the drug, an allergy or side effect may occur, which will further worsen the child's condition. Only the doctor knows which medications are suitable and will not harm health.

The lens is of great importance for vision, despite its diminutive size. Its opacity leads to a severe decrease in vision.

A clouded lens is called a cataract. This disease can be acquired and congenital. In addition, doctors divide it by the type of course into age-related, toxic, systemic and traumatic.

A patient with cataract thinks that he is healthy, because the disease does not manifest itself in any way or its manifestations are very minor. And when vivid symptoms of pathology appear, then conservative treatment does not give the desired effect. Therefore, cataract prevention is very important, expressed in an annual examination by an ophthalmologist.

Until the middle of the last century, cataracts were considered an incurable disease. All the doctors could do was remove the clouded lens. That all changed in 1949, when the Englishman Harold Ridley performed the first operation to install an artificial lens made of polymethyl acrylate. Since then, cataracts have ceased to be a sentence.

In modern ophthalmology clinics, doctors can choose which treatment to apply to a patient with cataracts.

Photo 1. Eye ointment Tetracycline, 1%, 10 g from the manufacturer OAO Tatkhimfarmpreparaty.

Levomycin and Erythromycin ointments have proven themselves well. Levomycytin ointment eliminates itching, burning and severe redness. Eliminates bacteria and infection with an antibiotic. It can even be used for newborns. Does not cause allergic reactions and is not toxic.

Erythromycin Ointment is a strong antibiotic that can only be used as directed by a doctor. Sometimes causes allergic reactions in patients with asthma or otitis media. The drug is quite toxic, it is prescribed to children only after 12 years.

Vizomitin drops can be used for both treatment and prevention of ailment. A product based on natural ingredients, vegetable oils with added vitamins nourishes the cornea of \u200b\u200bthe eye, eliminates redness and itching. Can be administered to children of any age.

Attention! The ointment should not be applied with cotton pads or cotton swabs. Cotton wool particles can get on the affected areas of the mucous membrane and cause further irritation. If the product does not have a special dispenser, apply the medication with your hands, having previously disinfected them.

Depending on the type of disease, appropriate treatment is prescribed. It usually involves the following actions:

• washing;
• massage in the area of \u200b\u200bthe nasolacrimal tubule;
• the use of drugs.

With the bacterial and viral form of the disease, the eyes are washed 5-6 times a day with chamomile infusion, furatsilin solution or strong brewed tea.

To prepare chamomile infusion, pour boiling water over 1 filter bag with vegetable raw materials, insist it for 15 minutes, then cool. A solution of furacilin is prepared at the rate of 1 tablet in half a glass of water.

Attention! Washing is carried out only with sterile napkins or cotton swabs in the direction from the outer corner of the eye to the inner one. For each organ of vision, a separate napkin is used once. The product is stored at room temperature for no more than 6 hours, then a new portion is prepared.

After washing, massage the area of \u200b\u200bthe nasolacrimal tubule, which allows you to cleanse the lacrimal duct and remove pus. Wash your hands thoroughly, treat with an antiseptic. It is convenient to place the child on a small pillow. With your index finger, gently press just below the inner corner of your eye. In the absence of complaints from the patient, it is allowed to slightly increase the intensity of pressure. The duration of the procedure is 1 minute, the frequency is 2-3 times a day.

Lack of response to treatment means that the chosen therapy is wrong. This happens if the diagnosis was initially incorrect. For example, with allergic conjunctivitis, the viral form of the disease is treated.

In the bacterial form of the disease, the absence of the effect of therapy can occur when the flora is resistant to a certain antibiotic. In this case, it is necessary to change the drug. Insufficient treatment is a reason for re-referring to the appropriate specialists.

Treatment must begin with the elimination of the cause of the formation of the disease. It is not worthwhile to establish a diagnosis on your own, you need to consult a specialist. Make an appointment with a doctor if any symptoms are found.

The exact determination of the diagnosis should be entrusted to an ophthalmologist, then the treatment will be effective, and the recovery period in children will be as fast as possible.

If there is a bacterial infection or a cold, then it is necessary to treat it with drugs in a drop form with an antibiotic substance. If there are problems with the lacrimal canals, the newborn will be prescribed drops, which in their composition resemble a human tear.

In general, treatment in different cases is carried out as follows:

1. Conjunctivitis has occurred, which means that drops that have an antibacterial effect ("Levomycetin", "Sulfacil sodium") will be useful.
2. Drops such as "Penicillin", erythromycin solution will help to cope with blepharitis, abscess, boils.
3. The drops "Likontin", "Oksial", "Oftolik" will help to improve the work of the lacrimal organs.
4. Inflammation of an allergic nature will be removed by Vizin drops.

A drug	Group	Active substance	Indications	Mode of application
Futsitalmik (drops); 0	Antibiotics	Fusidic acid.	Conjunctivitis, dacryocystitis and other bacterial eye lesions.	1 drop twice a day for 7 days.
Albucid (drops); 0		Sulfacyl ntaria.		For the prevention of blennorrhea: 2 drops after birth and the same after 2 hours. For the treatment of bacterial eye diseases - 1-2 drops every 4-6 hours until the symptoms disappear.
Tsiprolet; (drops); one		Ciprofloxacin.		The first two days - 1 drop every 2 hours. Then for five days - every 4 hours, 1 drop.
Ophthalmo- feron; 0	Antiviral, immunomodulatory, antihistamine.	Human interferon.	Allergic and viral inflammatory eye diseases.	In acute course - 1-2 drops every 3-4 hours. As the symptoms subside, the number of instillations is reduced to 2-3 times a day. The treatment continues until the signs of inflammation disappear completely.
Aktipol; 0	Antiviral.	Para-aminobenzoic acid.	Viral eye infections.	1-2 drops 2-8 times a day until the symptoms disappear. Continue for another 7 days, instilling 2 drops twice a day.
Allegordil; 4	Antiallergic.	Phthalazinone derivatives	Allergic conjunctivitis.	1 drop 2 to 4 times a day.

Principles of organizing therapy

At the end of today's material, let's turn our attention to the general principles of organizing the treatment of eye diseases in children. Firstly, it is worth noting that those are determined solely from the severity of the pathology in the baby.

That is, the more severe the course of the disease, the more serious methods of therapy will have to be applied. At the moment, in the field of ophthalmology, such treatment measures are used as:

• Taking medications, which occurs in cases with infectious or allergic eye damage.
• Appointment of corrective procedures for vision. These include wearing glasses, performing special gymnastics and similar activities.
• Carrying out laser correction of visual function, which consists in exposing the affected area of \u200b\u200bthe eyes with a special laser.
• Surgical intervention used in the most advanced or difficult cases, when other methods of treating eye pathologies cannot be used.

Note that the appointment of any type of treatment is the exclusive prerogative of the doctor, therefore, visiting the ophthalmological office with suspicion of eye diseases in a baby simply cannot be avoided.

I would like to believe that every reader of our resource understands the seriousness of this procedure and will not ignore the correct organization of therapy for vision problems in their children.

On this, perhaps, on the issue considered today, the most important information has come to an end. We hope the above material was useful to you. Health to you and your children!

Features of drug treatment

That is, there are certain rules that are extremely important to follow:

• if a newborn is being treated, he is swaddled and laid on a flat surface before the procedure. Not only the sore eye should be treated, but also the one that has not been touched by the infection;
• only clean bandages, napkins or cotton wool should be used. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before using the product;
• any drops or ointments are used as described in the instructions. And everything should be done at the appointed time. The procedures cannot be skipped, otherwise the treatment will be useless.

Medicines for the treatment of eye inflammation in children

Conjunctivitis is also treated with natural folk remedies. You can use different compresses, herbal decoctions, tinctures. At the onset of the disease, a decoction of cornflowers is suitable, which should be rinsed out of the eyes every 2-3 hours. You can alternate it with grated potato compresses, which are applied for 10-15 minutes.

Photo 5. Cornflower broth in a cup is a means with which you can wipe your eyes several times a day.

These products should be applied carefully to those people who are allergic to starch.

Eliminate infection and serve as an excellent antibacterial agent for Kalanchoe and sea buckthorn tinctures. Such decoctions or essential oils will moisturize the eyelid and eliminate the inflammatory process. But they cannot be used if a purulent formation has appeared in the eye area.

Photo 6. Sea buckthorn oil is a good antibacterial, anti-inflammatory agent for conjunctivitis at the initial stage.

Before using folk remedies, you should consult a doctor who will examine the inflamed area and determine whether such treatment will help you.

The most popular and effective home appliances

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Of all the senses, the newborn's organs of vision are the least developed, but this does not prevent parents, as soon as the child is born, immediately ask: "Does he see me?"

No, he doesn't. Do parents see a child when he is in the womb?

Do they need to see him when they address him with affectionate words? So why should a child necessarily see in order to develop his / her parents' sensory perception, especially at a time when he begins to develop physically and this requires a lot of effort?

Nevertheless, in the first days of a child's life, an ophthalmological examination is very important, which will detect visual impairments and diagnose the most common pathologies in infants: conjunctivitis and strabismus (strabismus).

The presence of a congenital cataract is established during the first examination of the child by a pediatrician, but if strabismus is also found during the first year of a child's life, an ophthalmologist's consultation is necessary. It is necessary to systematically visit an eye doctor in cases where the parents themselves had vision problems in childhood, especially at the age of 1-2 years.

Even if you are convinced that your child can see well, it is very important to show him to an ophthalmologist, at least before he goes to school, where the burden on vision will increase.

Why is it so important to see an eye doctor? In any case, the child must be shown to the eye doctor if he has a converging or diverging strabismus; if he has any problems with his studies; if he complains of pain, pain, or fatigue in the eyes; if his eyes are inflamed; if he suffers from headaches; if he tilts his head when trying to look closely at something; if the results of testing using the tables were not satisfactory. Eye examination using tables is carried out at the age of 3-4 years and then at each visit to the ophthalmologist. However, the fact that a child reads the chart satisfactorily when tested at school does not mean that there are no vision problems. If his eyes get tired quickly, he should be examined by a specialist.

Myopia (myopia). The inability to clearly see objects in the distance is the most common vision problem in young children. This inherited trait occurs from time to time in newborns, especially in infants born prematurely, but most often this disorder is detected after the age of two years. Myopia most often develops between the ages of 6 and 10 years. It can progress very quickly, so do not ignore the slightest signs of it just for the reason that a couple of months ago he had normal vision.

Myopia is usually the result of the eyeball being longer than the focusing ability of the child's eye. Less commonly, the disease is explained by a change in the shape of the cornea or lens of the eye.

Nearsightedness is treated with corrective lenses. Remember, your baby grows quickly, and his eyes grow with him, so he may need new lenses every six months or more.

Farsightedness... This is a condition in which the eyeball is shorter than the focusing ability of the child's eye. In most children, farsightedness is congenital, but as they grow older, the eyeball lengthens and farsightedness decreases. Normally, glasses are not required under normal conditions.

Astigmatism... Astigmatism is a condition in which the cornea refracts light rays differently. If a child has astigmatism, his vision may be blurred, he simultaneously sees poorly objects that are both near and far. Astigmatism can be corrected with glasses.

Strabismus (strabismus) in children

Strabismus (strabismus) often disturbs parents from the moment the child is born. But they need to remember that the work of the eye muscles is not yet coordinated in the newborn and it is still difficult for him to coordinate the movements of the eyeballs - so he mows. This transient strabismus will disappear by itself in a few months.

If strabismus appears in a baby at the age of 6-8 months, it can be assumed that its occurrence is associated with the growth of the roots of the nose. In this case, the squint will disappear when the child begins to crawl on all fours.

However, the appearance of pronounced strabismus in the first months of a child's life or before the age of one year requires a mandatory visit to an ophthalmologist, since you need to make sure that this is not an anomaly that can further affect visual acuity. Often, very young children are prescribed glasses. And often these children willingly put them on, because they cease to feel the inconvenience associated with impaired vision wearing glasses, that is, they see them better than without them.

But if the child does not want to wear glasses, parents must find simple and convincing words to explain to the child that the world will seem clearer and more beautiful to him with glasses.

Strabismus is an uncoordinated eye movement caused by an imbalance in the muscles that control the eyes. A newborn baby's eyes tend to wander. But after a few weeks, he must learn to move them simultaneously, and within a few months this wandering should disappear. If the infant's eyes continue to wander intermittently or do not turn in the same direction at the same time (if one eye turns inward, outward, upward, or downward), he or she should be examined by a pediatric ophthalmologist. This condition, the so-called strabismus, or strabismus, prevents both eyes from focusing their gaze simultaneously in the same direction.

If your baby has congenital squint, it is very important to straighten his eyes early in life so that he can focus on one object with both eyes at the same time. Easy exercise for. the eye cannot fix this, so treatment usually includes glasses, eye drops, or surgery.

If a child needs surgery, it is most often done between the ages of six and 18 months. Surgery is usually quite safe and effective, although in some cases multiple surgeries may be required. Even after surgery, the child may need to wear glasses.

Sometimes it seems that the child has a squint due to the structure of his face, but in fact, everything is in order with his eyes. Such children may have a flattened nose and pronounced skin folds near the nose, the so-called epicanthus, which can distort the appearance of the eyes and give the impression that the child is squint, although in fact it is not. This condition is called pseudo-strabismus (which means false squint). This does not affect the child's vision in any way, and in many cases, as the child grows, and the bridge of the nose becomes more protruding, this type of pseudo-pseudo-strabism passes away.

Due to the need for early diagnosis and treatment of true strabismus (or true strabismus), if you have any doubts that your child's eyes are not the same or do not look at the same time, be sure to inform the pediatrician, who can determine if your child really has any problem. ...

Strabismus occurs in about four out of every 100 children. It may already be present at birth (infantile strabismus) or it may develop at a later stage in childhood (acquired strabismus). Strabismus can develop if the child has other visual impairments, eye injuries, or cataracts. If you suddenly notice the manifestation of strabismus in a child, immediately inform the pediatrician. Although rare, it can signal the development of a tumor or other serious problem in the nervous system. In any case, it is important to identify and begin treatment for strabismus in an infant as early as possible. If the treatment of the turned eye is not started in time, the child may never master the ability to look with two eyes at the same time (binocular vision); if both eyes are not used at the same time, one of them can become "lazy", which leads to the development of amblyopia.

Amblyopia in children

Amblyopia is a fairly common vision problem (affecting about two out of every 100 children), which develops when one of the child's eyes is worse or damaged, so he begins to use his healthy eye more often. After that, the unused eye completely relaxes and becomes even weaker. Usually, the problem needs to be identified by age three to treat and restore vision to the damaged eye by age six. If it is not possible to heal the eye for too long (after seven to nine years of age), the vision of the non-working eye may be permanently lost.

After the ophthalmologist corrects all the problems of the non-working eye, the child may need to wear a bandage over his healthy eye for a while. This forces him to use and strain his "lazy" eye. This therapy can be continued until the weakened eye is functioning properly. This may take weeks, months, or the child may be ten or more years old. As an alternative to a bandage, an ophthalmologist may advise the use of eye drops or ointments to blur the vision of the healthy eye, causing the child to strain the lazy eye.

Eye infections in children

If the white of the eye and the inside of the baby's lower eyelid turn red, they may have a condition called conjunctivitis. This inflammation, also known as acute epidemic conjunctivitis, can be painful and itchy; These are usually signs of an infection, but other causes, such as tenderness, an allergic reaction, or (in rare cases) a more serious problem, can also cause these symptoms. Often this condition is accompanied by tears and secretions, which are the way the body tries to cope with an infection or heal a disease.

If a child has a red eye, it should be shown to the pediatrician as soon as possible. The doctor will make a diagnosis and, if confirmed, will prescribe the necessary medications for the child. Never put previously opened ointment or medicines prescribed by a family member on your child's eye. This can cause serious complications.

In newborn babies, serious eye infections can result from exposure to bacteria as they pass through the birth canal, so antibiotic eye ointment or eye drops are applied to all babies in the delivery room. These infections need to be treated as early as possible to avoid serious complications. Eye infections that occur after the baby is born can be quite unpleasant, as they are usually accompanied by reddening of the eye and yellowish discharge. These symptoms can be uncomfortable for the baby, but in most cases they are harmless. They can be caused by viruses or bacteria. If the pediatrician suspects bacteria may be causing the problem, antibiotic drops are the usual treatment. Conjunctivitis caused by viruses should not be treated with antibiotics.

Eye infections usually last about ten days and can be contagious. Except for those moments when you drip drops or apply ointment to the child, you must avoid direct contact with the child's eyes or cleansing them until the child has drunk the course of the prescribed drugs for several days and signs that the redness has passed. Before and after touching the area around the infected eye, wash your hands thoroughly. If the child is attending childcare, it is necessary to leave him at home until the acute conjunctivitis is no longer contagious. The pediatrician will tell you when you can send your child to kindergarten.

Diseases of the eyelids in children

Ptosis of the upper eyelid (ptosis) may manifest as an enlarged or heavy upper eyelid, or if the drooping is slight, it can only be seen if the affected eye appears smaller than the other. Ptosis usually affects only one eyelid, but in fact both can be affected. The child may have congenital ptosis or the disease may develop later. Ptosis can be partial, with the child's eyes becoming slightly asymmetrical, or complete, with the affected eyelid completely covering the eye. If the ptosis-affected eyelid obstructs the entire pupillary lumen of the infant's eye, or if the weight of the eyelid causes the cornea to take on an irregular shape (astigmatism), this may threaten the development of normal vision and should be corrected as early as possible. If the vision is not threatened, the necessary surgery is usually postponed until the child is four to five years old or more, so that the eyelid and surrounding tissues become more developed, which will help to achieve a better cosmetic result.

Most birthmarks and tumors on the eyelids of a newborn baby are benign; however, as they may increase in size in the first year of life, parents are concerned about this. In most cases, these birthmarks and tumors are not serious and do not affect the baby's vision. Many lesions become smaller after the first year of life and eventually go away on their own without any treatment. Nevertheless, any violations or deviations from the norm must be shown to the pediatrician so that he can assess the severity of the violation and monitor the child's condition.

Some babies are born with tumorsaffecting vision, or they appear after childbirth. In particular, a flat, purple-colored tumor (hemangioma) in the upper eyelid of an infant threatens the development of glaucoma (a condition in which pressure in the eyeball increases) or amblyopia. Every baby with such a spot should have periodic check-ups with an optometrist.

A small dark birthmark, the so-called nevus, on the eyelid or the whites of the eye itself is extremely rarely a cause for concern or needs removal. Such formations must be shown to the pediatrician, and then just make sure that its size, shape and color remain unchanged.

A small, firm, flesh-colored lump on the eyelid or under the eyebrow of an infant is most often dermoid cyst... This is a benign tumor that usually exists from the very moment of delivery. Dermoids do not lead to cancer if not removed; however, since these lesions increase in size during puberty, it is generally best to remove them in the preschool years.

Two other diseases of the century - chalazia and barley - are common, but they are not serious. Chalasia is a cyst that forms as a result of a blockage of the sebaceous gland. Stye in the eye is a bacterial infection of the cells surrounding the finished glands or hair follicles that are located at the edge of the eyelid. Call your pediatrician and find out how to treat this condition. Your pediatrician will probably advise you to apply a warm compress directly to your eyelid three to four times a day for 20-30 minutes until the chalazion is gone. The doctor may need to examine the child before prescribing additional treatments, such as antibiotics or eye drops. Barley is an infection of the hair follicle of the eyelashes caused by bacteria. Barley usually ripens to a certain size and then bursts. Warm eye lotions also help. (The eyelids are very sensitive, so warm rather than hot water should be used.) One barley is often followed by others, as it seems that when the barley bursts, microorganisms spread to the rest of the eyelash follicles. This is why children should not be allowed to rub their eyes with their hands or touch the barley with their fingers during its ripening period.

If a child once fell ill with chalasia or had barley, then there is a high probability that the disease may recur. If chalazion occurs periodically in a child, in some cases it is necessary to cleanse the eyelids in order to reduce bacterial colonization of the eyelids and free the pores of the sebaceous glands.

Impetigois a highly contagious bacterial infection that occurs on the eyelid. The pediatrician will tell you how to remove the crust from the eyelid, and then prescribe an eye ointment and a course of antibiotics.

Problems with lacrimation and tearing

Tears play an important role in maintaining good vision, as they keep the eyes moist and free of various small particles, dirt, or other matter that can damage or harm normal vision. The so-called lacrimal system ensures the constant production and circulation of tears and relies on normal blinking to help set tears in motion and distribute them over the entire surface of the eye, after which they drain into the nasal cavity.

This lacrimal system gradually develops over the first three to four years of life. Thus, a newborn baby will most often release the amount of tears needed only to cover the surface of the eyes, and only by about seven to eight months after birth, he will begin to cry "real" tears.

Blocked tear ducts, common in newborns and young children, can cause excessive tearing in one or both eyes as tears run down the cheeks instead of running down the nasal cavity and throat. In newborn babies, blocked tear ducts usually occur if the membrane covering them during labor does not disappear after birth. Your pediatrician will show you how to massage the tear duct and how to cleanse your eyes with moist compresses to remove discharge. Purulent, infectious discharge may persist until the tear duct is completely cleared. Since this is not an infection or acute conjunctivitis, antibiotics should not be used.

In some cases, a membrane or small cyst can cause blockage or inflammation of the tear ducts. If this happens to your child and the methods described above do not work, the optometrist may decide to open the blocked tear stream with surgery. In rare cases, this operation has to be performed several times.

Cataract in newborns

While we generally think of cataracts as a disease only in older people, it can also occur in newborn babies and young children, and in some cases be congenital. A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye (the clear lens inside the eye that helps pass the Light Beams to focus on the retina). However, congenital cataracts, which are much less common, are the leading cause of vision loss and blindness among children.

It is necessary to identify and start treating cataracts in a child at an early stage in order for his vision to develop properly. Cataracts usually appear as a white spot in the center of the pupil of a child's eye. If a baby is born with a cataract that blocks most of the light entering the eye, the affected lens must be surgically removed so that the baby's vision can develop. Most pediatric ophthalmologists recommend performing such an operation in the first month of a baby's life. After removing the clouded lens, the baby needs to undergo vision correction with contact lenses or glasses. At the age of about one year, it is recommended to place a lens in the eye. In addition, the process of restoring vision to the affected eye in almost all cases involves applying a bandage until the child's eyes reach full maturity (at the age of nine or older).

In some cases, a baby is born with a small cataract that does not initially interfere with the development of vision. In most cases, these cataracts do not need treatment, but they do require close monitoring to make sure they do not grow to a size that could interfere with the child's normal vision. In addition, even if the cataract is too small and does not directly threaten the development of vision, it can cause the development of collateral amblyopia (loss of vision), the treatment of which will need to be dealt with by an ophthalmologist.

In most cases, the cause of cataracts in babies cannot be determined. Cataracts can be hereditary; it can result from trauma to the eye, or from a viral infection such as rubella and chickenpox, or infections of other microorganisms, such as those that cause toxoplasmosis. In order to protect the unborn baby from the occurrence of cataracts and other serious disorders, pregnant women should avoid unnecessary contact with infectious diseases. In addition, as a precaution against toxoplasmosis, pregnant women should not clean the litter box and eat raw meat, as there can be organisms that cause disease.

Eye damage in children

If dirt or small particles get into the baby's eye, then their own tear washes them away, cleansing the eye. If tears are unable to rinse the eye, or if serious injury has occurred, after a thorough eye check and following emergency procedures have been performed, call the pediatrician or take your child to the nearest emergency room.

The presence of chemicals in the eye. Flush the eye with water for 15 minutes, making sure to get the water directly into the baby's eye. Then take the child to the emergency room.

Large particles in the eye. If the particle does not come out with tears or when rinsing with water, call your pediatrician. The doctor will remove the particle or refer you to an optometrist if necessary. In some cases, these particles cause abrasions on the cornea of \u200b\u200bthe eye (corneal scratches), which are painful in themselves, but heal quickly when treated with eye ointment and when wearing a bandage. Also, corneal damage can be caused by a blow or other damage to the eye.

Eyelid cut. Small cuts usually heal quickly and easily, but deep cuts need urgent medical attention and may need stitches. Even if the cut is small, make sure it's not on the edge of the eyelid or near the tear duct. If he is in this particular place, immediately call the pediatrician - he will give you instructions on what to do in this case.

Black eye. To reduce swelling, apply a cold compress or towel to the bruised area for 10-20 minutes. Then see your doctor to make sure there is no internal damage to the eye or the bones around it.

My child woke up with red eyes and green slime in them. Is it conjunctivitis? Do I need to bury something in my eyes? When can a child be taken to kindergarten again?

Conjunctivitis is like a runny nose, only in the eyes. It is highly contagious and can easily be passed from one child to another, as they often rub their eyes with dirty hands. Sometimes it is caused by a virus and then it goes away over time, and sometimes even bacteria, and then antibiotic treatment is required. As a rule of thumb, ophthalmic antibiotics may be needed if yellow or green mucus comes out of the eyes, especially if the child wakes up and cannot open his eyes. If the eyes are just red, but there is no discharge or they are transparent, you can wait for now. It will probably go away by itself in a few days. If the child has a runny nose or fever, does not feel well or seems unhealthy, show him to the doctor: sometimes inflammation of the eyes is accompanied by ear infections or sinusitis. Usually, the child can go to kindergarten or school again one day after the start of treatment or after the discharge has disappeared.

Call the doctor and describe the symptoms of the illness to understand if you need to take your child to the pediatrician or give him medication.

Which does not pose a danger to the child's eyes. Watching television in close proximity to the screen and reading for extended periods does not appear to have a negative effect on vision. However, reading in low light can contribute to the development of myopia.

The visual apparatus performs one of the most important functions for the normal development of a child. After all, vision problems lead to his lag. Educational games for mindfulness, preparation for school become problematic for eye diseases in children. There are many diseases of the visual apparatus that occur not only in adults but also in babies. The most common diseases should be considered in more detail.

Myopia

The most common eye disease in children. The medical term for myopia is myopia. Usually develops from the age of 5 years. The child gradually ceases to clearly see objects at a distance.

Causes of occurrence in children

There are a number of reasons why children develop myopia. The most common are:

1. Genetic predisposition. If the baby has at least one parent suffering from myopia, then the chance of its occurrence is quite high. Therefore, parents should be prepared for such a situation and at the first signs of deterioration in visual acuity in a child, contact an ophthalmologist. At an early stage, myopia can still be completely cured.
2. Sedentary lifestyle. In such children, myopia develops several times more often.
3. Incorrect fit. If the baby is sitting at the table in an uncomfortable position, then during reading, writing or drawing, the visual apparatus is overstrained.
4. Concomitant or congenital eye diseases. A child may be born with congenital astigmatism or spinal cord injuries that negatively affect the organ of vision.

Myopia treatment

In order to cure myopia in a child, complex therapy is required, which includes:

• optical correction, that is, wearing glasses;
• the use of special drops to train the eye muscles;
• hardware therapy.

Important to remember! Is a rather complicated process, so every parent must support the child during this difficult period for him!

Farsightedness

This disease in children develops as a result of an atypical structure of the visual apparatus. The kid begins to faintly see objects in front of his eyes. Reading is particularly difficult.

The main symptoms of hyperopia

• the child begins to blink and rub his eyes often;
• at the time of playing with small details and when watching TV, the baby tries to move as close as possible to the objects;
• when reading and examining pictures, brings them very close to the face;
• regular eye strain leads to headaches and moodiness of the child.

The kid may refuse to draw or read. Conjunctivitis occurs for no reason.

Treatment

Farsightedness is treated primarily by wearing glasses. Also, the ophthalmologist can refer you to hardware therapy, depending on the severity of the disease. Complex therapy is carried out in several courses with intervals of 3 months. With the correct implementation of the doctor's prescriptions, the prognosis is almost always favorable.

Astigmatism

- This is a violation of the shape of the lens or cornea of \u200b\u200bthe eye. The child experiences image distortion, which leads to loss of visual acuity This disease can be found in a baby for such ailments:

• the child begins to look at objects from only one angle;
• one eye periodically covers;
• often squints and approaches a closer distance to the subject of interest;
• quick fatigue.

Due to the rapid fatigue of the visual apparatus, the child often rubs his eyes.

Treatment

Initially, the ophthalmologist prescribes the wearing of glasses. For some period the child wears them. If no improvement is observed, then visual therapy is prescribed. An examination is carried out every 3 months. The ophthalmologist must evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment. If it is not effective, he changes the scheme and method of exposure.

It's important to know! Astigmatism should be eliminated at the first symptoms! After all, the disease can lead to myopia and other visual disorders.

Conjunctivitis

- a disease that is inflammation of the eyeball. It can occur as a result of the ingress of pathogenic viruses or bacteria, as well as an allergic reaction.

Symptoms

This disease develops rapidly and is accompanied by the following symptoms:

• severe redness of the eyes and swelling of the eyelids;
• itching and burning of the optic organ;
• discharge from the eyes of a purulent character;
• swollen lymph nodes.

The child feels constant weakness of the body and regular headaches.

The causes of the disease

Ophthalmologists distinguish between infectious and non-infectious conjunctivitis. The infectious form of the disease occurs due to the ingress of harmful bacteria, viruses or fungi into the organ of vision.

As for non-infectious conjunctivitis, it develops as an allergic reaction to certain chemicals and other irritants.

It's important to know! Conjunctivitis does not have a standard treatment regimen! Depending on the cause of the disease, a certain therapy is prescribed.

Barley

- acute inflammation of a purulent nature, which forms near the root of the eyelash.

Reasons for the appearance

This disease in children usually occurs as a result of the ingress of pathogenic microbes such as streptococci or staphylococci. The prerequisites for the appearance of barley may be such ailments:

It's important to know! Barley can be transmitted in the household! Therefore, a sick baby should have separate hygiene items for the period of illness.

Symptoms of occurrence

This purulent neoplasm is easy to detect. Children have the following symptoms:

• swelling and redness of the eyelid;
• painful sensations at the moment of touching and blinking;
• after a couple of days, an abscess forms in the center of the swelling.

If you do not start treatment, the barley will swell more and more.

Treatment

In order to eliminate the disease in a baby, first you need to be exposed to dry heat. In parallel, the affected area should be treated with alcohol tincture of calendula. These procedures are required to be carried out and the appearance of a formed abscess. After this, heat should not be applied. This can lead to the spread of the inflammatory process throughout the eye.

The affected eye needs to be dripped with antibacterial drops and treated with ointments. If the disease recurs periodically, then care should be taken to increase the immune system and timely treatment of chronic infectious diseases.

In order to timely detect and begin effective treatment of eye diseases, it is required to regularly take the child for a routine examination to an ophthalmologist, at least 2 times a year.

The organs of vision are protected from problems such as eye infections by the anatomical barrier of the eyelid. Moreover, with the help of the blinking reflex, continuous hydration occurs. The infectious process can affect any part of the eye, including the eyelids, conjunctiva, and cornea.

Infectious diseases of the eye most often manifest themselves in the form of symptoms characteristic of conjunctivitis - inflammation of the outer mucous membrane of the eye.

Ophthalmic diseases can occur for a number of reasons: pathology of the tear film, trauma, weakening of the immune system. Inflammation is characterized by the appearance of unpleasant sensations, among which are decreased visual acuity, increased sensitivity to light, eye pain, redness, discharge and crusts.

The effectiveness of treatment in children and adults directly depends on the timely diagnosis, which should be carried out by a qualified specialist. What are the eye infections, what are they called, what signs are they characterized and can you get rid of them? We will talk about this and much more later in the article.

Infectious eye diseases in humans

There are a number of infectious diseases that are very common:

• conjunctivitis;
• trachoma;
• blepharitis;
• dacryocystitis;
• endophthalmitis;
• keratitis;
• staphylococcal corneal ulcer and many others.

Serious ophthalmic disorders of an infectious nature require immediate medical attention. Mild infections can be treated at home, but if the condition gets worse after two to three days, see your doctor. Pharmacy eye wash solutions can help relieve symptoms of eye infections. Decoctions of medicinal herbs in the form of compresses are also very useful.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, see your doctor immediately:

• the eyes are red and swollen, and there is thick discharge. Most likely, this is a sign of a bacterial process that requires the use of antibiotics;
• pain in the eyes, which is accompanied by photophobia and blurred vision;
• pupils are of different sizes;
• the presence of a foreign body;
• symptoms of an eye infection persist after four days of home treatment.

Early diagnosis by an ophthalmologist will help speed up the healing process

The pathological process can be caused by viruses, bacteria and fungi. The disease manifests itself in the form of such complaints of people:

• redness of the eye white;
• lacrimation;
• discharge white or yellow;
• dry crusts in the eyelids and on the corners of the eyes after sleep;
• the skin of the eyelids is peeling and swollen;
• a small red lump appears at the edge of the eyelids.

Chlamydial infection

Chlamydiae are neither bacteria nor viruses. They are called opportunistic microflora, which means that microbes can exist in a healthy body and do not cause any disturbances, but under the influence of certain factors, chlamydia can become activated and multiply.

Their peculiarity is that they can wait a long time. Chlamydia are located in the epithelium of various organs, waiting for favorable conditions for their activation. It can be stress, hypothermia, or a weakened immune system.

Important! One third of all recorded conjunctivitis is caused by a chlamydial infection.

Chlamydia can be in the body for a long time, waiting for a convenient moment for its activation

Chlamydia of the organs of vision can occur in various organs, namely:

• keratitis - damage to the cornea;
• paratrachoma - inflammation of the eye membrane;
• meibolitis - inflammation of the meibomian glands;
• episcleritis - a pathology in the tissues that connect the conjunctiva and sclera;
• uveitis - damage to blood vessels and more.

Most often, the spread of infection occurs when a pathogenic microbe is transferred from the genitals. The patient can transmit chlamydia to his sexual partner. In most cases, the disease is transmitted through unprotected sex. Overweight hands or personal items can be the source of infection. You can catch chlamydia in public places such as a bath, sauna, swimming pool.

Important! Often, chlamydia in the eyes is a clear sign of a urogenital infection, which proceeds with mild clinical symptoms.

Chlamydial infection is a common cause of inflammation of the lining of the eye

At risk are men and women who are promiscuous, patients with acute or chronic conjunctivitis, and children of mothers with chlamydia. Also at risk are doctors who, by the nature of their work, have to contact patients.

The incubation period lasts from five to fourteen days. In most cases, the infectious process is unilateral. The characteristic signs of chlamydia are the following symptoms:

• infiltration of the mucous membrane of the eye;
• swelling of the eyelids;
• itching and pain in the eyes;
• eyelids stick together in the morning;
• photophobia;
• inflammation of the auditory tube;
• an increase in regional lymph nodes;
• drooping of the eyelid;
• discharge of a mucous or purulent character.

It is possible to eliminate the pathological process with the help of local and systemic antibiotic therapy. Specialists often prescribe antibiotic eye drops: Lomefloxacin, Ciprofloxacin, Ofloxacin, and Norfloxacin.

Important! Lack of timely treatment threatens the development of blindness.

Viral eye infection

The organs of vision are often attacked by viruses. Viral damage can be caused by:

• adenovirus;
• herpes simplex virus;
• cytomegalovirus;
• measles virus, mononucleosis, rubella, chickenpox.

Adenovirus

A distinctive feature of adenovirus infection is the appearance of a watery secretion from the eye and nasal cavity. Among the most common symptoms of ailments are the following:

• mucous discharge;
• redness of the eyes;
• lacrimation;
• photophobia;
• itching, burning;
• swelling of the century;
• feeling of sand.

Most often children and middle-aged adults suffer from adenovirus eye infections.

SARS symptoms also appear: runny nose, sore throat, cough, fever. Most often, infection occurs when a child came from the street and began to rub his eyes with dirty hands. The transmission of infection can occur by airborne droplets and by household contact.

Many consider adenovirus infection to be a harmless process that does not entail the appearance of serious complications. But in reality this is not entirely true. An untreated disease can lead to chronicity of the process, as well as the development of bacterial conjunctivitis.

It is not so easy to treat an adenovirus infection, this is due to the ability of the pathogen to mutate. To combat the disease, doctors often prescribe Oftalmoferon.

Herpes

Herpes can manifest itself in different ways, the most dangerous option is herpes eye damage. The pathological process can lead to damage to the cornea and even the development of blindness.

The herpes virus can enter the body through the oral mucosa, respiratory system, or through sexual contact. Infection can also occur by sharing dishes or towels.

Ophthalmic herpes can be easily confused with allergies, so do not self-diagnose, it can be fraught with loss of vision

The body is protected by immunity, so it can provide decent resistance for a long time. If for some reason the immune system weakens, ophthalmic herpes appears. Its appearance can provoke banal hypothermia, stressful situations, injuries, and pregnancy.

The manifestations of herpes in the eyes can easily be confused with allergies or bacterial lesions, which is why self-diagnosis cannot be performed. Ophthalmic herpes is manifested as follows:

• redness of the mucous membrane of the eye and eyelid;
• pain syndrome;
• deterioration of vision, in particular, twilight;
• profuse lacrimation;
• photosensitivity.

The condition can be aggravated by the appearance of pain, nausea, fever and an increase in regional lymph nodes. To make a diagnosis, a scraping of cells from the affected area of \u200b\u200bthe skin and mucous membrane is taken from the patient. And the enzyme immunoassay will detect antibodies to herpes infection.

Ophthalmic herpes should be treated with the following medicines:

• antiviral: Acyclovir, Oftan-IMU, Valacyclovir;
• immunoassays: Interlock, Reaferon, Poludan, Amiksin;
• herpes vaccine. It is introduced strictly in the period without exacerbation: Vitagerpevak and Gerpovak;
• mydriatics for relieving spasm: Atropine, Irifrin;
• antiseptics;
• antibiotics;
• vitamins.

Herpes can be transmitted by sharing utensils

HIV

In the case of the immunodeficiency virus, the front and back of the eye are affected. In patients, there is a change in the microcirculation of the conjunctiva, tumor and infection. Neoplasms in HIV infection are represented by lymphomas. With uveitis, there is a bilateral lesion, although the disease is characterized by a one-sided course.

Common viral diseases

Let's talk in more detail about two common pathological processes:

• Uveitis. In twenty percent of cases, the disease leads to complete blindness. The conjunctiva becomes red, lacrimation, photophobia, pain syndrome, and blurred vision are observed. With uveitis, the blood vessels of the eye are most affected. Treatment includes anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agents.
• Keratitis. Most often, the disease is diagnosed in infants and the elderly. With the superficial type, only the corneal epithelium is affected, and with the deep type, the entire stroma is affected. The eye becomes swollen, red, bubbly and cloudy appear. Treatment includes the use of immunomodulatory, antibacterial and antiviral agents.

With a viral infection of the eye, symptoms characteristic of ARVI may appear

Fungal infection

Experts call fungal diseases mycoses. Currently, there are more than fifty types of fungi that can cause ophthalmomycosis. The pathogen can penetrate the damaged area, for example, with eye injuries. Also, the fungus can infect the eye, moving from other areas, for example. With mycoses in the area of \u200b\u200bthe skin of the face.

Ophthalmomycosis occurs more often in childhood and is much more severe than in adults. Regardless of the form and type of fungus, the disease has the same clinical manifestations:

• burning and itching;
• redness;
• purulent discharge;
• the formation of a film on the mucous membrane;
• lacrimation;
• painful sensations;
• blurred vision;
• decreased vision;
• the formation of ulcers and wounds on the eyelids.

The photo shows the characteristic manifestation of ophthalmomycosis

For systemic use, fungicidal, antimycotic and antibacterial agents are prescribed. Locally, the eyelids are lubricated with antimycotic solutions and ointments.

Bacterial diseases

Bacterial eye lesions are characterized by pronounced clinical symptoms, which prompts the patient to see a doctor. For an accurate diagnosis and the appointment of an effective antibacterial agent, patients must pass a bacteriological smear. Sowing can show which pathogen is present in the body and to which antibiotic it is sensitive.

Conjunctivitis

The bacteria can cause several types of conjunctivitis:

• Fulminant. The condition is a medical emergency. It can lead to corneal perforation and loss of vision. Systemic antibacterial agents form the basis of treatment.
• Acute. The process is benign and, with adequate treatment tactics, takes place in one to two weeks. Still, there is a risk of transition of an acute process into a chronic form.
• Chronic. Most often, the causative agent of the chronic form is Staphylococcus aureus.

Medicines against infection should be prescribed by a qualified professional

Keratitis

Bacterial damage to the cornea causes opacity, redness, pain, and ulceration. The pathological process proceeds as a sluggish ulcer. The cause of keratitis is most often pneumococcal infection.

To eliminate the disease, doctors prescribe antibiotic eye drops. If left untreated, bacterial keratitis can lead to a thick corneal leucorrhoea.

Blepharitis

Bacteria provoke the development of chronic inflammation of the eyelids. The main causative agent of blepharitis is Staphylococcus aureus.

The disease is difficult to treat. Doctors usually prescribe antibiotic eye drops. Treatment continues for a month after the disappearance of clinical symptoms.

Dacryocystitis

Dacryocystitis is an inflammation of the lacrimal sac. The disease can be acute and chronic. Treatment includes cefuroxime-based systemic antibiotics. In some cases, surgery is indicated.

So, eye infections can be caused by viruses, bacteria and fungi. Treatment tactics are selected depending on the specific pathogen. Some infectious processes are fraught with the development of serious complications, including blindness. That is why it is extremely important to consult a doctor in a timely manner for a diagnostic examination. Some diseases can be quite similar in their manifestations, so self-medication can seriously harm you.

No matter how hard we try to protect our child from illness and hardship, no parent can cope with such a task. Sooner or later, viruses and infections enter the child's body, causing a number of diseases. Of course, there are diseases that can be prevented by vaccination, but, unfortunately, this does not apply to eye pathologies. But poor vision at an early age significantly delays the development of the baby. In preschoolers, problems of this kind limit the range of interests of the child and slow down his preparation for school. As for schoolchildren, their poor eyesight, as a rule, causes a decrease in self-esteem, the development of complexes. Not to mention the fact that eye diseases reduce school performance, become an obstacle when choosing a sports section and even a child's future profession.

Based on this, it is easy to guess that early diagnosis of eye diseases in children is very important. It is necessary to identify any visual impairments when the children's visual system is just being formed. The fact is that many of the eye diseases are treatable only at an early age. This means that every parent should know what symptoms indicate the development of diseases of the visual organs in children. As you may have guessed, our today's publication will be entirely devoted to the topic of childhood eye diseases. Well, let's talk?

Conjunctivitis

This condition is inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane that covers the sclera (the white of the eye) and the lining of the eyelids. Conjunctivitis can be caused by a viral or bacterial infection, allergy, or some irritant. Viral conjunctivitis often develops against the background of a cold.

The disease of the visual organs in question is diagnosed in children of any age. Symptoms of the disease are redness of the mucous membranes of the eye, lacrimation, greenish discharge. Conjunctivitis in children is treated with antibacterial and antiviral drugs of local and systemic action. Treatment is prescribed by an ophthalmologist after a comprehensive examination of the child's visual organs.

Barley

The disease in question is characterized by reddening of the eyelid, and then the appearance of a swelling on it, at the top of which an abscess forms. The picture of the inflammatory process is complemented by itching, pain and even an increase in body temperature. Various pathogenic bacteria, for example, Staphylococcus aureus, can cause barley to appear on a child's eye. Outer barley develops due to an inflammatory process in the sebaceous gland or eyelash hair follicle. Internal - appears inside the eyelid, caused by inflammation of the meibomian gland.

This eye disease, like the previous one, can develop in children of any age. If a swelling appears in the child's eye, it is necessary to apply a warm handkerchief to the affected area and urgently seek help from a doctor. To relieve inflammation of the sebaceous gland of the eyelid, the doctor prescribes eye drops containing antibiotics, and to wash the eyelid - a solution of furacilin.

Chaliazion

This eye disease, expressed in blockage and inflammation of the sebaceous gland of the eyelid, most often affects preschool and school children. It can develop in the upper or lower eyelid, sometimes in both eyes. Chalazion is often an independent disease, but sometimes it is the result of other infectious diseases, for example, influenza, acute respiratory viral infections, diabetes mellitus, excess sebum secretion by the skin glands. However, most often this disease develops due to infection in the eyes through the child's dirty hands.

The disease manifests itself with edema and redness of the mucous membranes, accompanied by itching and burning of the affected eyelid. After 3-5 days, a dense capsule can be found inside the eyelid. If the seal is located closer to its outer part, then it is easy to notice. In such a situation, it is urgently necessary to show the child to the doctor, since antibiotic therapy is required in the treatment of this disease.

Chorioretinitis

Such an eye disease affects the posterior part of the membrane of the organ of vision, which is penetrated by a branched network of blood vessels. The disease is defined as neoplastic. In this case, part of the retina is involved in the formation. Chorioretinitis can be congenital or acquired. That is, it is diagnosed, as a rule, in newborns and children under one year old.

The development of the disease occurs under the influence of toxoplasmosis infection, syphilis, tuberculosis or herpes virus. Also, infections of the ENT organs or the oral cavity of a pregnant woman during the period of bearing a child can become provocateurs of the disease.

The inflammation can consist of one or more lesions. Such an eye disease is most often detected during a child's medical examination. With a disease of the central or macular region, blurring and loss of visual acuity is observed. Chorioretinitis is treated with antibiotics, antivirals and other drugs that have a detrimental effect on the infection. It should be noted that physiotherapy in the treatment of this disease has a positive result. Often in the treatment of chorioretinitis, laser coagulation of the retina is used to slow the spread of the focus.

Myopia

Nearsightedness (myopia) is a visual impairment in which, due to an enlarged eye or excessive refraction, rays of light converge in front of the retina, forming a fuzzy image on it. This pathology often develops in schoolchildren due to the colossal load on the visual apparatus and the active growth of the eye during this period.

The symptoms of myopia are poor vision of distant objects. The disease is corrected with glasses with diffusing (minus) lenses.

Macular dystrophy

Retinal degeneration, or juvenile macular degeneration, is a hereditary disease that begins in preschool age, gradually progresses with the disappearance of central vision and the slow development of blindness. Children with this eye disease complain of discomfort when looking at the light. The child sees better at dusk. When diagnosing the disease, you can find yellowish or brown spots on the fundus. At later stages, a focus of atrophy forms in the central parts of the retina, and atrophy of the optic nerve gradually occurs.

Unfortunately, it is impossible to completely cure the disease. To maintain the function of vision, drugs are prescribed that improve blood supply and nutrition to the retina. Laser therapy techniques can also be used. Treatment of macular degeneration in children should be carried out under the supervision of a physician.

Destruction of the vitreous body

DST - this term is called the opacity of the fibers that make up the vitreous body of the eyeball. This violation is expressed in the observation in the field of view of various visual images that move following the movement of the eye. The people call this disease the appearance of "flies before the eyes."

In children, this pathology most often occurs against the background of anemia. With a low hemoglobin content in the blood, the brain begins to experience oxygen starvation, which causes black flies to appear before the eyes. Often this eye disease is the result of a birth injury. Therefore, children of any age are prone to destruction of the vitreous body.

To establish a diagnosis, it is sufficient for the ophthalmologist to examine the fundus of the child and do an ophthalmoscopy. Treatment for this disorder will depend entirely on its cause.

Iridocyclitis

A very common disease, which is determined by the presence of inflammatory processes in the eyes, their anterior parts of the choroid, including the iris and the ciliary body itself. Iridocyclitis in children can be infectious, allergic, autoimmune, traumatic. Often, the disease develops among children of the older age group.

The main symptoms of iridocyclitis in children are pain in the eyes, decreased visual acuity, fear of light, increased tearing, too narrow a pupil. An ophthalmologist is involved in the diagnosis and treatment of this disease in children. Physiotherapeutic methods of therapy for iridocyclitis include electrophoresis, ultrasound therapy, diathermy and phonophoresis. In the form of drops, anti-inflammatory nonsteroidal drugs, glucocorticosteroids, antibiotics are prescribed.

Astigmatism

This disease is characterized by visual impairment, in which the degree of refraction of light rays in two mutually perpendicular planes is different, a distorted image is formed on the retina. Astigmatism is associated with congenital structural features of the optical system of the eye (more often with an uneven curvature of the cornea). The 1.0 diopter difference in refractive power is easily tolerated. With a higher degree of astigmatism, the contours of objects at different distances are perceived as fuzzy, distorted. The disease is often diagnosed in younger and older children. To correct vision, complex glasses with cylindrical lenses are used, which compensate for the difference in refractive power.

Eye diseases in children: treatment and prevention

We found that babies of any age are prone to developing inflammatory eye diseases. This is a fairly large group of pathological conditions of the visual organs, in which inflammatory processes develop in the structures of the eye, as well as on the eyelids, in the lacrimal apparatus.

Features of the treatment of eye diseases depend on the causes and nature of the inflammation. In the treatment of inflammatory processes on the visual organs, antibacterial and antiviral drops, ointments, as well as combined agents, antihistamines are used. The choice of a specific medicine is determined by the localization and nature of the inflammation. Therefore, self-treatment of eye diseases in children is unacceptable, since it can have serious negative consequences for vision.

To prevent infection from entering the child's eyes, it is necessary to thoroughly wash the crumbs' hands, as well as increase his immunity and eliminate foci of infection in the internal organs. If even minimal signs of eye inflammation appear, the child should be shown to an ophthalmologist.

Eye diseases that are accompanied by a decrease in vision in children (astigmatism, myopia, strabismus and others) also require early diagnosis and timely correction with the use of glasses.

In order to prevent visual impairments, it is important to saturate the child's diet with foods high in vitamins, adhere to the daily routine, and not let the baby sit at the computer for a long time, in front of the TV. It is useful to do eye exercises with your child.

Do not forget that most of these diseases are treatable only in childhood, since age-related changes in the visual organs often become irreversible.

Take care of your children and be healthy!

Especially for - Nadezhda Vitvitskaya