# Refractive Errors in Children Source page: https://www.kudretgozistanbul.com/en/treatments/refractive-errors-in-children **Author:** Kudret Eye İstanbul | **Medical Approval:** Op. Dr. Nail Sönmez | **Date:** 2026-09-05 > **Summary:** Children rarely say they cannot see well, so regular eye examinations are essential. Myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism are the most common refractive errors in children, and errors left uncorrected at an early age can cause permanent blurred vision (amblyopia). --- ## Why Examinations Matter Children usually cannot express vision problems and untreated refractive error has no obvious outward signs; parents may notice nothing by looking at the child's eyes. Warning behaviours include excessive blinking when reading, frowning and constant eye rubbing; in infants, frequent eye rubbing, inability to focus on toys, one eye moving less than the other or strabismus. Even at 3 or 4 years of age, children can do vision tests with pictures, shapes or letters, testing each eye separately to catch one-sided vision loss. Untreated refractive errors are one of the most common causes of vision loss in children in Turkey and worldwide. ## Common Refractive Errors in Children - **Myopia:** Distant objects are blurred; usually genetic and the most common vision problem needing correction in children. Often noticed when a school-age child cannot see the board; may cause headache or eye fatigue. - **Astigmatism:** Abnormal corneal curvature blurs both near and far vision; may occur with myopia or hyperopia and can begin in childhood or adulthood. Causes headache, eye strain and fatigue; children rub their eyes, lose interest in school and struggle to read. Glasses or contact lenses may be needed depending on severity. - **Hyperopia:** Near objects are blurred; usually genetic and can occur in childhood and adolescence. Causes headache, eye strain and fatigue, blinking, eye rubbing, lack of interest in school and reading difficulty, and is sometimes accompanied by strabismus. ## Diagnosis An eye examination is the best way to diagnose refractive error. Pupil-dilating drops are applied to both eyes before measurement; without drops the child's focusing power can hide the true error. ## When Does a Child Need Glasses? Not every error needs glasses: some long-sightedness is normal for age and reduces with growth. The decision depends on the size of the error, the child's age, the difference between the eyes and whether a squint or amblyopia is present. Glasses can be used even in infancy if needed. ## Do Glasses Prevent Amblyopia? Glasses let the brain develop with a clear image; an uncorrected eye keeps sending a blurred image and amblyopia develops. Consistent wearing is essential. If amblyopia has already set in, glasses alone may not be enough and additional treatment such as patching may be needed. ## Check-ups The prescription changes as the eye grows, so check-ups continue at set intervals and glasses are updated; myopia in particular can progress. If the child complains about the glasses, keeps taking them off or tilts the head to look at things, see the doctor without waiting, as the prescription or frame may not fit. ## Price The price varies depending on the underlying cause and the treatment, and is set individually after a detailed examination. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions **Q: When should babies have their first eye examination?** A: Generally between the ages of 6 months and 1 year, or earlier if there is a family history of refractive errors. **Q: Are refractive errors in children permanent?** A: Usually yes, but they can be treated or controlled with glasses or contact lenses. **Q: Can laser surgery be used in children?** A: Surgical treatments such as laser are not usually applied to children. Treatment includes glasses, contact lenses or sometimes orthoptic treatment for lazy eye. **Q: Can refractive errors in children be prevented?** A: Errors with genetic causes cannot be fully prevented, but regular examinations allow early diagnosis; limiting screen time and a healthy lifestyle help.