Echuca-Moama children missing out on eye tests

Echuca Specsavers optometrist Thuan Tu said annual tests were vital to ensure eyes were in good health.

“An eye test for your child should be a part of that back-to-school checklist, even if you aren't concerned about any changes in their vision or they don't wear glasses,” he said.

“Annual check-ups allow optometrists to examine and look for underlying eye problems, such as eye turns, diseases of the retina or congenital eye problems kids are born with.

“If there is a family history of eye problems, there is more reason for kids to have their eyes checked to detect those conditions early and have effective treatment to reverse or prevent further vision loss.”

With Victorian children learning remotely for much of 2020, optometrists have seen a rise in the complaints of eye strain, fatigue and blurry vision.

“It is widely agreed prolonged screen time increases chances of kids becoming short sighted,” Mr Tu said.

“A good rule of thumb to reduce risks is for every 20 minutes spent in front of a computer or tablets, kids should look at an object six metres away for a few minutes.

“Natural daylight also plays an important role in slowing down progression of short sightedness. Hence, we strongly encourage kids to play outside to balance screen time and green time.

“Kids under two years old should have no screen time,” he said.

The most common eye issues experienced by Victorian children are dry or sore eyes, itchy eyes, headaches or tired eye, and a problem seeing things in the distance.

“Short-sightedness has been on the rise in the last few years,” Mr Tu said.

“It is crucial kids have regular tests so the condition can be monitored closely, and intervention is implemented in a timely manner to slow or halt progression.”

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