Pediatric Ophthalmology in Kochi

Pediatric Ophthalmology

Pediatric ophthalmology is a specialised branch of ophthalmology devoted to the eye health and visual development of infants, children, and adolescents. It plays a critical role in safeguarding a child’s ability to see clearly throughout their formative years. Ophthalmologists who specialise in paediatrics undergo extensive training beyond general ophthalmology.This additional training equips them with the expertise to diagnose and treat a comprehensive spectrum of eye conditions unique to this age group. These conditions can manifest at birth (congenital) or emerge as the child grows.

Pediatric ophthalmologist in Kochi

Pediatric ophthalmologists in Kochi are adept at addressing a variety of challenges not typically encountered in adult patients. This includes strabismus (crossed eyes), amblyopia (lazy eye), congenital cataracts, tear duct problems, and nearsightedness. They also possess the specialised skills required to manage eye conditions associated with developmental disorders and genetic syndromes. Furthermore, Children eye specialists in Kochi are experienced in examining and treating children who may have difficulty communicating their symptoms or cooperating during examinations.

How Are Pediatric Eye Diseases Diagnosed and Treated?

Pediatric ophthalmology focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of eye conditions in infants and children. This subspecialty plays a critical role in ensuring proper visual development. Pediatric ophthalmologists manage a broad spectrum of conditions, from common refractive errors correctable through the Spectacle and Contact Lens to more complex issues like amblyopia (lazy eye) requiring patching or medication.

Tear Duct Problems Treatment

Excessive tearing and eye discharge in kids may be due to blocked or underdeveloped tear ducts. Treatment Options:

  • Surgery (goniotomy or trabeculotomy) is often the first line of treatment.
  • Drop or medication that will lower eye pressure.
  • Regular exams to check progress of condition is important.

Pediatric Glaucoma Treatment

Pediatric glaucoma is a situation where there is elevated pressure inside the eye that can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss. Treatment Options:

  • Duct area massage to promote opening (especially in newborns).
  • Antibiotic eye drops if infection is present.
  • Probing procedure to open duct if not resolved by age 1.
  • Chronic case surgery (DCR).

Strabismus Treatment in Children

strabismus is commonly known as “crossed eyes” or “squint”. Strabismus is when both eyes do not align together, or when one eye is moving in a different direction than the other. One eye may be in, out, up or down, while the other eye is looking straight ahead. If you’re looking for effective solutions, we offer the best squint or crossed eye treatment in Kochi tailored to your child’s needs. Treatment options:

  • Eyeglasses to correct vision and proper eye alignment.
  • Patching to strengthen the eye that is weaker.
  • Eye muscle exercises.
  • Surgery to adjust the muscles controlling eye movement, if needed.

Congenital Cataracts

Congenital cataracts are cloudy areas in the lens of a newborn’s eye that can affect vision development.
 Treatment Options:

  • Surgery to remove the cloudy lens, often within the first few months of life.
  • Contact lenses or intraocular lenses to replace focusing power.
  • Patch therapy or glasses to prevent amblyopia and ensure balanced vision development.

Amblyopia (Lazy Eye) Treatment

Amblyopia is the reduction of vision in one eye due to the brain favoring the other eye. Treatment Options: 

  • Patching the strong eye to make the weak eye work.
  • Atropine drops in the stronger eye to blur vision temporarily.
  • Glasses if there's a refractive error.
  • Vision therapy for eye coordination and strengthening.

Nearsightedness (Myopia) in Kids

Nearsightedness means a child can see objects clearly that are near; but has difficulty seeing objects that are further away. Treatment options: 

  • Prescribed glasses or contact lenses to see distance clearly.
  • Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) — a special lens(es) that you wear overnight to reshape the cornea.
  • Low-dose atropine eye drops which may delay the progression of myopia.
  • Remember children grow quickly and we need to monitor their eyes regularly.

Early diagnosis is crucial for conditions like amblyopia, as treatment success rates are highest during specific developmental windows. At KPM Eye Hospital, pediatric specialists utilize age-appropriate techniques and equipment to minimize patient anxiety during examinations. Furthermore, they address pediatric glaucoma, tear duct blockages, and eye problems associated with prematurity or genetic disorders. By prioritizing early intervention and creating a comfortable environment, pediatric eye doctors in Kochi play a vital role in safeguarding a child’s vision for the future.

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