There are a variety of signs that can provide a warning of possible eye troubles in children.

If your child shows one or more of these signs, you should have your child seen by an eye doctor as soon as possible.

Behavioral signs include the following:

• Rubs eye excessively

• Shuts or covers one eye

• Tilts head or thrusts head forward

• Has difficulty reading, holds objects close to eyes

• Blinks more than usual or is irritable when doing close-up work

• Squints eyelids together or frowns

Signs in appearance may include:

• Crossed eyes

• Red rimmed, encrusted, or swollen eyelids

• Inflamed or watery eyes

• Recurring styes (infections) on eyelids

Common complaints may include:

• Eyes itch, burn or feel scratchy

• Cannot see well

• Dizziness, headaches, or nausea following close-up work

• Blurred or double vision
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A professional eye examination for every child, including those who not display any signs of eye trouble, is recommended shortly after birth at 6 months of age, before entering school (age 4 or 5) and periodically throughout the school years.

Regular eye exams are important since some eye problems have signs or symptoms.