• Family history of eye problems
• African American over 40
• Diabetes
• An individual history of eye injury

Some of the symptoms that may indicate you are experiencing vision problems include:

• Rubbing eyes repeatedly
• Dislike and avoidance of close work
• Holding head at an angle when looking at an object
• Shutting or covering one eye to focus
• Excessive blinking
• Holding books closely
• Using a finger as a place mark when reading
• Sitting too close to the television
• Developing red eyes

Most children with visual defects are unlikely to complain about their vision, thinking everyone else sees the same. Because of rapid growth and subsequent vision changes, school age children should have their eyes examined annually to ensure that potentially serious disorders are detected. Early detection of vision problems is particularly important for primary and intermediate school children that are learning to read and write. A child who cannot see is at a learning disadvantage.

EYECARE THROUGHOUT LIFE

As we grow older, the efficiency of our eyes deteriorates. Commonly, the optical tissue becomes less transparent and changes in the retina reduce the sensitivity of the nerves, which convert light into tiny electrical impulses for the brain. Spectacles or contact lenses make up for any change in optical focus, but to compensate for the loss of transparency within the eye, increasing intensities of light are required in later life.

Being aware of the warning signs of eye problems, eye disease and visual disorders is critical to getting them treated promptly and professionally.