Vision problems and eye health are a big concern for parents. Will poor vision affect their kids’ education? Do they need to worry about sports injuries if they let their children participate in sports? Are glasses or contacts in their future? A pediatric ophthalmologist can help parents answer these questions and provide the best solutions so they don’t have to worry.
Wait…pediatric what?
If you’re not sure about what kind of eye care your child needs, here’s what you should know about this specialized medical profession.
What Is a Pediatric Ophthalmologist?
Like the more well-known optometrist, ophthalmologists diagnose and treat vision problems. However, as medical doctors, ophthalmologists are also licensed to perform surgery and practice medicine. They receive more education and training than an optometrist, including medical school, internships, and residency training.
The primary duties of optometrists include screening patients for eye abnormalities, performing vision tests, and prescribing corrective lenses. With more extensive education and training, ophthalmologists are able to treat the eye more fully.
Pediatric Ophthalmology is a sub-specialization of ophthalmology that focuses on eye development, vision care, and eye diseases in children. If your child has vision issues beyond a simple vision test and corrective lenses, or if you just want to ensure that they are getting the best care possible, a pediatric ophthalmologist has the qualifications to provide your child with comprehensive eyecare.
What Treatments Do They Provide?
Medical doctors who specialize in pediatric ophthalmology are trained to diagnose and treat all eye problems in children. Common services that pediatric ophthalmologists provide their patients cover a wide range of issues:
- Perform eye exams
- Diagnose eye problems that stem from other health issues
- Perform various corrective surgeries
- Provide care for eye injuries
- Prescribe corrective lenses
If you are unsure about whether you need the services of an ophthalmologist for your child, keep reading to learn why your child might need one.
Why See a Pediatric Ophthalmologist?
Unlike adults, children are not always able to communicate what is bothering them. They are not always able to answer questions about their health in an accurate way. Children with eye problems need a highly trained medical professional with special equipment designed specifically for children to get the most accurate and comprehensive care.
Not all eye care is created equal. A pediatric ophthalmologist is the best choice for children’s eye care. They provide the widest range of services and know how to make their patients comfortable and relaxed. If your child’s primary care doctor thinks that they need their eyes checked, an ophthalmologist can provide them with complete care.
Get in Touch with Eye Hope Clinic
Quality eye care is especially important for children because their eyes are still developing. If you think your child needs the help of an eye doctor, don’t hesitate to contact Eye Hope Clinic today. Dr. Zenia P. Aguilera has over 25 years of experience providing patients with everything from routine eye care to major surgery.