When it comes to cataract, the eye condition is generally thought to be associated with older age. However, it could very well affect infants and children. Therefore, it is important to take your child to regular eye checkups so that the presence of early symptoms is detected. This preventive measure will prove beneficial in your child’s early treatment.
1) Causes of cataract in infants and children
There are several reasons that can cause the unborn baby to develop cataract during the mother’s pregnancy period. One of the common causes being the family history of the eye condition. If the father or the mother-to-be has a cataract, the odds are high that the baby too will develop it.
The baby can also develop a cataract if the mother contracts an infection during pregnancy, such as measles, influenza, herpes zoster, syphilis, herpes simplex, cytomegalovirus, or chickenpox, visit https://suriaplasticsurgery.com/valtrex-valacyclovir/. Chromosomal problems like Down syndrome might also cause congenital cataract.
In young children, cataract could occur due to factors such as eye injury, radiation treatment, diabetes, and the use of steroids.
2) Identifying cataract symptoms in your child
As mentioned above, children may not be aware of problems in their eyes until they experience difficulties in seeing properly. In some cases, it’s possible to notice cataracts in children. Cataracts look like grey spots in the eyes’ lens; they can also look like a reflection inside the pupil.
However, in many cases, cataracts may not be visible. If your child is experiencing vision problems due to cataract, they may face difficulty in recognising certain shapes, colours, or experience vision decline in dimly-lit areas. Other signs of cataract to look out for in your child is the ability to discern certain things from a close distance, in order to see properly. You would know it is difficult for them if they start rubbing their eyes, or blink too often.
If you happen to be in Kolkata, visit Disha Eye Hospitals. Disha has a team of expert eye doctors, including paediatric eye care specialists, who would help in detecting cataract right away, or any other eye conditions that may arise. Book an appointment online at http://www.dishaeye.org/organic/.
3) Treatment
If your child has a mild form of cataract which doesn’t affect their vision, it may not need to be removed. However, if the eye condition is hindering vision and interfering with your child’s day to day life, it is advisable to get it treated. Many parents assume that medicines or glasses could cure cataract but at present, the only treatment for cataracts is surgery; the surgeon replaces the clouded lens with an artificial lens called an intraocular lens. Glasses can be used after the surgery for a clear vision.
Wish to know about Cataract surgeries in Kolkata? Consult the eye specialists at Disha Eye Hospitals
Consult one of Disha’s paediatric eye doctors to know whether cataract surgery is the right treatment option for your child (in case they have been diagnosed with the said condition).