New-born children, despite being able to see, do not have a fully developed visual system, and in order for a fully functional visual apparatus to form, it is necessary for the brain to continuously receive sharp visual stimuli. In fact, if the child has vision impairments, the development of the visual system may be impaired. Visual defects that commonly occur during childhood include strabismus; amblyopia (lazy eye) and refractive defects (myopia, hypermetropia and astigmatism).
Therefore, detecting any eye abnormalities as early as possible is a prerequisite for ensuring good vision in one's child, and the parent assumes a central role in preventing possible visual defects that could become irreversible if neglected.
Therefore, as recommended by the Ministry of Health, children should undergo eye examinations:
-at birth;
-to three years and six months;
-to five years and six months;
-to ten/twelve years;
-every time anomalies are found.
What factors should a parent take into account?
First of all, if parents have any hereditary eye disease, such as retinitis pigmentosa, strabismus or congenital cataracts, they should immediately have their child's eyes checked.
In addition, certain infant eye abnormalities may occur if the mother was affected by diseases such as rubella or toxoplasmosis during pregnancy. In addition to these conditions, the parent should consult the medical specialist if they notice certain symptoms in their child, including:
-reddened eyes;
-photophobia;
-white pupils;
-non-regular shape of the iris;
-blank stare;
-frequent falls;
-continuous headaches.
For more information click directly on the Ministry of Health link
http://www.salute.gov.it/portale/documentazione/p6_2_5_1.jsp?lingua=italiano&id=106