Children’s dry eye syndrome is a relatively uncommon disorder, but it’s one that can affect your child’s eye health. Therefore, if your child frequently complains about having dry and/or itchy eyes, then you should take it seriously. There are various causes behind dry eye syndrome, and the disorder can also be a symptom of autoimmune, endocrine, congenital, and inflammatory diseases. If your child’s eyes are regularly dry, then it is important to pay attention and to have their eyes assessed by a professional, as vision and eye problems could develop over time if your child’s dry eyes aren’t treated. Here are some things to know about chronic dry eyes in children: Pediatric Ophthalmology Bloomington MN
What factors can result in dry eye syndrome?
Children nowadays spend more time in front of screens on average than any other generation did growing up. And unfortunately, using electronic devices such as computers, game consoles, and tablets on a regular basis can increase the potential for your child to develop dry eyes. Allergies, inflammatory disorders, poor nutrition, and diabetes can also potentially contribute to your child developing dry eye syndrome as well.
What can help treat and/or prevent dry eyes in children?
While treatment for dry eyes is generally needed, there are a few things you/your child can do at home to help prevent them from getting dry eyes. This includes (but is not limited to):
- Making sure your child takes frequent breaks from staring at a screen and is getting plenty of non-screen time
- Using indoor humidifiers
- Refraining from using fans at night
- Applying warm compresses on your child’s eyes
- Abstaining from drying your child’s hair with a hair dryer
- Making sure your child is drinking enough water
- Having your child take vitamins or supplements (if recommended by a doctor)
- Making sure your child wears proper eye protection when outside
What to know about screen time and dry eyes in children:
Children who use smartphones and/or other electronic devices on a regular basis are much more likely to develop dry eyes. While reducing screen time is difficult for parents due to the fact that cellphones, tablets, and laptops are frequently required for children’s studies nowadays, it’s important to make sure that your child is spending an adequate amount of time outside and doing other activities that don’t entail them staring at a screen for extended periods of time.
If your child’s eyes are constantly dry, then you should bring them to a pediatric ophthalmologist in Bloomington MN to get them tested and diagnosed. A pediatric ophthalmologist, such as those at Insight Vision, can also make treatment recommendations and carry out any necessary procedures if needed.