Careful attention to physical appearance, behavioral changes, and complaints from your child can assist in the early detection and treatment of eye disorders. Often parents, grandparents, or caregivers are the first to detect problems.

What are the symptoms of eye problems in children?

The following are possible signs and symptoms of potential eye problems. However, each child may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:

• Blurred vision

• Double vision

• Crossed eyes

• Eyes turn in or out and do not focus

• Redness in the eyes

• Swelling of the eyes

• Eyes are sensitive to light

• Eyes appear to bulge

• Excessive tearing

• Drainage from the eyes

• Squinting

• Your child rubs eyes excessively

• Your child has difficulty reading

• Your child tilts head to see

• Your child has difficulty in performing "close-up" tasks

• "Jiggly" or dancing eyes

• Abnormal-sized eyes (too large or too small)

• Droopy eyelid

The symptoms of eye problems may resemble other medical conditions. Always consult your child's doctor for a diagnosis.