What are the common causes of blindness in children and how to treat them

Parents all hope that their babies will grow up healthily, but what if their children are born with defects, such as visual impairment? Parents can first understand the causes of blindness, then take their children to see a doctor, tell the doctor about the vision problems you have found, and let the doctor diagnose and treat the child.

What are the causes of blindness in children?

Pre-existing: Many vision problems exist before you are born. In some cases, parts of the eye don't develop as they should, and this can cause vision problems.

The brain cannot transmit: Sometimes a child’s eyes may appear fine, but the brain cannot process the information transmitted, which causes the child to have vision problems.

Problems with the optic nerve: In some cases, the optic nerve, which is responsible for sending images to the brain, does not develop correctly or has problems functioning properly, which can lead to vision problems.

Genetic or inherited: Blindness can also be hereditary or inherited. This means that if a particular member of your family has visual impairment, your children are also at risk of developing the same condition.

Caused by certain accidents: Blindness may also be caused by certain accidents, where foreign objects damage the eyes. This is also an important reason why we must protect our eyes well.

Caused by certain diseases: Certain diseases, such as diabetes, are more likely to cause eye complications (diabetic retinopathy), which may cause vision problems. Cataracts can also affect partial or complete vision.

How to treat visual impairment in children

Make an appointment with an eye doctor: If you notice any of the above signs and symptoms affecting your child, make sure to take your child to an eye doctor. Also, get a regular physical exam to ensure eye health.

Perform eye tests: Doctors will usually ask you about your symptoms and signs and perform eye tests to further identify the problem and provide treatment.

Wear glasses to correct: For some eye problems, wearing glasses or contact lenses can help children see better. At this time, you can go to a professional optician to buy glasses.

Surgery: Some eye problems require surgery. Regardless of the cause, the solution and treatment of the eye should be determined based on the cause.

Follow a healthy diet: In some cases, a child's vision problems may be due to malnutrition. This problem can be solved by following a healthy diet. You can ask your doctor what to eat.

Regulating sugar intake: Cataract surgery, as well as certain forms of medication and eye drops, may also be options for treating some children with vision impairment, usually depending on the cause.