Pediatric Care Specialist

What are common pediatric eye conditions?

Often, refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism emerge in childhood. In addition to these conditions that affect the sharpness and clarity of your child’s vision, Dr. Storm also screens for childhood eye conditions such as:

• Lazy eye (amblyopia)
• Crossed eyes (strabismus)
• Glaucoma 
• Cataracts 

Conditions such as amblyopia and strabismus are often present at birth and are due to genetic factors. Dr. Storm recommends early treatment to reduce the risk of complications. 

What happens during a pediatric eye exam?

With his extensive background in pediatrics and ophthalmology, Dr. Storm helps your child feel comfortable and confident during their eye exams. He tests their visual acuity and eye health so that any issues can be treated before the problem interferes with their performance at school or permanent damage occurs. 

Dr. Storm screens for a wide range of eye health issues, including:

• Visual acuity
• Eye tracking
• Binocular coordination 
• Focusing skills
• Color blindness
• Peripheral awareness
• Hand-eye coordination 
• Dyslexia 

Dr. Storm uses a comprehensive array of specialized tests, including:

• Visual field tests
• Pupil dilation
• Slit-lamp exams
• Cover test
• Retinoscopy
• Refraction

These tests measure your child’s visual acuity and identify the precise prescription for corrective lenses, if necessary. They also identify any abnormalities or issues that could interfere with your child’s sight or eye health.

How are pediatric eye conditions treated?

Depending on the results of your child’s eye exam, Dr. Storm provides customized treatment plans that may include:

• A prescription for glasses
• Recommendation for frequent sunglasses use
• Medication to reduce any inflammation or infection
• Wearing an eye patch for amblyopia
• Vision therapy for weak eye muscles
• Surgical repair 

Dr. Storm explains your child’s treatment options and answers your questions so you can make informed choices to protect your child’s vision and eye health.

Why does my child need an eye exam?

Eye exams reveal underlying eye conditions at an early stage so Dr. Storm can begin treatment before any damage to your child’s vision occurs. Eye exams are also early indicators of dyslexia and other disabilities that could interfere with your child’s success at school. 

You can also learn about how to protect your child’s eyes. For example, Dr. Storm highly recommends that children wear sunglasses with ultraviolet (UV) protection to reduce their risk of eye diseases like cataracts and macular degeneration later in life. 

If your child is due for an eye exam, call Richard Storm, M.D. P.C. or schedule an appointment for expert pediatric eye care.