Dry Eye in Children: Recognizing Symptoms and Treatment Options

While dry eye is often thought of as a condition that affects adults, children are not immune to its discomfort. With increasing screen time, environmental factors, and underlying health issues, dry eye in children is becoming more common. Understanding the symptoms and knowing the available treatment options can help parents address the issue early and provide relief for their child.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Dry Eye in Children

Dry eye can be challenging to diagnose in children, especially since they may not be able to articulate their symptoms clearly. However, as a parent, keeping an eye out for these signs can help:
 

• Frequent Eye Rubbing: If your child is constantly rubbing their eyes, especially in the absence of allergies or tiredness, it may be a sign of dry eye.
   

• Redness or Irritation: Irritated, red eyes can indicate that the eyes are not producing enough moisture or that the tear film is not functioning properly.
   

• Complaints of a Stinging or Burning Sensation: If your child mentions their eyes feel like they're burning or stinging, it could be an indication of dry eye.
   

• Sensitivity to Light: Children with dry eye may become more sensitive to light, preferring dimmer environments to avoid discomfort.
   

• Difficulty with Schoolwork or Reading: Dry eye can make it harder for children to focus, especially when reading or using a computer. If your child seems to have trouble focusing on tasks or their school performance is declining, dry eye could be a contributing factor.
   

What Causes Dry Eye in Children?

There are several factors that can contribute to dry eye in children, including:
 

• Increased Screen Time: With more children using tablets, computers, and smartphones for both education and entertainment, dry eye symptoms can arise due to reduced blink rates and prolonged focus.
   

• Allergies: Seasonal or environmental allergies can lead to dry eye symptoms, especially if a child frequently rubs their eyes.
   

• Environmental Factors: Dry air, wind, and exposure to heaters or air conditioning can all contribute to drying out the eyes.
   

Treatment Options for Dry Eye in Children

There are several effective ways to treat dry eye in children, depending on the severity of the condition:
 

• Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter artificial tear solutions can help lubricate the eyes and alleviate discomfort. Be sure to consult with an eye care professional to choose the right product for your child.
   

• Warm Compresses: Applying a warm compress to your child’s eyes can help stimulate tear production and relieve any blockages in the tear ducts.
   

• Adjusting Screen Time: Encourage regular breaks during screen use, following the "20-20-20 rule" – every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This helps reduce eye strain and encourages more frequent blinking.
   

• Humidifiers: Adding moisture to the air in your home with a humidifier can help keep your child’s eyes from drying out, particularly in winter months when heating systems can dry the air.
   

• Lid Hygiene: If your child’s dry eye is related to eyelid inflammation, maintaining proper eyelid hygiene with special cleaning pads or solutions can help alleviate the issue.
   

The Importance of an Eye Exam

If you suspect your child is suffering from dry eye, scheduling an eye exam is a crucial first step. During the exam, an eye doctor will assess your child’s tear production, evaluate the overall health of their eyes, and recommend appropriate treatments. Early detection is key to preventing long-term discomfort and potential vision issues.
 

Get in Touch with Nuwave Vision Today

Dry eye in children can significantly affect their quality of life and academic performance. By recognizing the symptoms early and exploring the right treatment options, parents can help their children maintain clear, comfortable vision. Whether it’s adjusting screen time or seeking professional eye care, managing dry eye symptoms effectively is possible.
 

If you’ve noticed signs of dry eye in your child, schedule a consultation with Nuwave Vision. Contact our office in Westlake, Ohio, by calling (440) 881-0002 to book an appointment today.