Understanding the signs and symptoms of cataracts in children can lead to prompt medical attention and better outcomes.
This can affect their ability to perform everyday tasks and engage in activities that require clear vision, says Dr Mandeep Singh Basu, Director- Dr. Basu Eye hospital.
Light sensitivity: Children with cataracts often exhibit heightened sensitivity to light, also known as photophobia.
Difficulty seeing in low light: Cataracts can make it challenging for children to see in dim lighting conditions.
These behaviours are coping mechanisms to maximize the remaining vision and can be signs of underlying cataracts, says Dr Basu.
Babies and young children with cataracts may avoid making eye contact due to their compromised vision. (Image: Canva)
Cataracts, characterised by the clouding of the eye's natural lens, are a significant cause of childhood blindness, especially in India. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cataracts contribute notably to visual impairment in children thereby early detection and timely intervention are crucial in preventing lifelong vision problems. Understanding the signs and symptoms of cataracts in children can lead to prompt medical attention and better outcomes.
Common signs and symptoms
Story continues below Advertisement Remove Ad
Cloudy or blurry vision: The most evident symptom of cataracts is cloudy or blurry vision. As the lens of the eye becomes opaque, it obstructs the passage of light, leading to diminished clarity. Children may struggle to see details and often describe their vision as looking through a foggy window. This can affect their ability to perform everyday tasks and engage in activities that require clear vision, says Dr Mandeep Singh Basu, Director- Dr. Basu Eye hospital.
Light sensitivity: Children with cataracts often exhibit heightened sensitivity to light, also known as photophobia. Bright lights can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful, causing children to squint or turn away from light sources, says Dr Basu. This sensitivity can hinder their ability to play outdoors or participate in brightly lit environments.
Difficulty seeing in low light: Cataracts can make it challenging for children to see in dim lighting conditions. Activities like reading at bedtime or playing in shaded areas become difficult, as the reduced light exacerbates the already limited vision. This symptom is particularly noticeable in settings with varying light conditions, where the contrast is essential for clear sight.
Visible cloudiness in the eye: One of the more apparent signs of cataracts in children is a noticeable cloudiness or whitish-gray spot in the pupil. This physical change is often detected by parents or caregivers and warrants immediate medical attention. The cloudiness indicates the progression of the cataract, which can severely impair vision if left untreated.
Abnormal eye movements: Children with cataracts may develop nystagmus, characterised by involuntary eye movements, or strabismus, commonly known as crossed eyes. These abnormal movements can indicate visual impairment and often signal the need for further examination. Strabismus, in particular, can affect depth perception and coordination, says Dr Basu.
Delayed development: Infants with cataracts may have delayed development of their vision. A child may not track moving objects, recognise familiar faces, or engage with their surroundings as expected. These developmental delays highlight the importance of early eye examinations to identify and address visual impairments promptly.
Story continues below Advertisement Remove Ad
Poor eye contact: Babies and young children with cataracts may avoid making eye contact due to their compromised vision. This lack of engagement can be mistaken for other developmental issues, but it often stems from an inability to see clearly. Noticing these behavioural changes early can lead to timely intervention.
Squinting or head tilting: Children might squint or tilt their heads to see better or reduce glare. These behaviours are coping mechanisms to maximize the remaining vision and can be signs of underlying cataracts, says Dr Basu.
