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New parents have a lot to think about when it comes to keeping their babies safe and healthy. Yet, while parents are well aware of the schedule of pediatrician’s visits they must follow, there’s one often-overlooked aspect of infant care many do not know: the importance of visiting the eye doctor. The professionals from Wing Eyecare in Cincinnati, OH and Newport, KY are here to shed light on this critical aspect of childhood wellness.

According to a report published by the National Commission on Vision & Health, only one out of 13 children age five or younger has visited an eye doctor. Oftentimes, parents don’t think they need to visit one unless their child exhibits evident vision problems. Yet, many eye issues can go unnoticed.

For instance, eye conditions such as infections associated with conjunctivitis, blocked tear ducts, and even congenital cataracts can be difficult to detect in their earliest stages. However, when spotted by a doctor and treated as early as possible, many conditions can be treated successfully.

Likewise, children have the best odds of making a full recovery from conditions like reduced control focusing (or “lazy eye”) when they are treated early. As such, professionals recommend infants have their first visit with an eye doctor at the age of six months. Before then, parents can maintain eye health by keeping babies’ nails trimmed and watching for any signs of issues, such as drooping eyelids, struggle to focus, redness, discharge, or excessive blinking.

During their first visit, the eye doctor will check to make sure the eyes are functioning and developing well. If all seems fine, the doctor will likely not need to see your child again until they’re two or three, and then once again before they enter kindergarten. Thereafter, yearly eye exams are important for monitoring eye health and determining whether eyeglasses are needed.

The caring and attentive eye doctors from Wing Eyecare treat patients of all ages and have the tools and technology to keep your entire family’s eye wellness on track. To schedule an appointment for yourself or your child, call (888) 274-9464 or learn more about their services online. You can also like their Facebook page to keep in touch.

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