Pediatric eye exams need to be completed on a yearly basis. The structure and condition of the eyes can rapidly change, especially during periods of quick childhood growth. The eye exam allows optometrists to create a baseline of health and vision capabilities for the child. Future exam results will be compared with prior records to determine the total rate of change for the pediatric patient. If vision decline is occurring, optometrists can attempt to slow, halt or reverse the changes to limit the prescriptive correction the child needs.
Early diagnosis and treatment is key in keeping pediatric health conditions from raging out of control. At the eye exam, optometrists check the anatomy and condition of each eye to determine if the young patient is exhibiting signs of a medical condition. If so, optometrists work with the child’s pediatrician to fully control symptoms and treat the diagnosed condition.