What Is the Most Common Eye Disease in Children?

When it comes to children’s eye health, many parents are surprised to learn that vision problems are more common than they realize. Because kids often don’t know what “normal” vision should look like, eye conditions can go unnoticed for years without proper screening. Understanding the most common eye disease in children and why early detection matters can help protect your child’s vision and overall development.

The Most Common Eye Disease in Children: Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)

The most common eye disease affecting children is amblyopia, often referred to as “lazy eye.” Amblyopia occurs when one eye does not develop normal vision during early childhood. Even though the eye may appear healthy, the brain begins to favor the stronger eye, causing the weaker eye’s vision to worsen over time.

Amblyopia typically develops from birth through about age seven, when the visual system is still forming. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent vision loss in the affected eye. The condition is especially concerning because it often has no obvious symptoms - children may not complain of blurry vision or realize one eye isn’t seeing well.

What Causes Amblyopia?

Several underlying issues can lead to amblyopia. One of the most common causes is uncorrected refractive errors, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, especially when one eye sees significantly better than the other. Strabismus, or eye misalignment, is another frequent cause, as the brain may suppress input from the misaligned eye to avoid double vision. Less commonly, physical obstructions like congenital cataracts or droopy eyelids can interfere with normal vision development.

Other Common Childhood Eye Conditions

While amblyopia is the most common eye disease in children, other vision conditions are frequently diagnosed during pediatric eye exams. Refractive errors are extremely common and can affect a child’s ability to read, learn, and participate in activities. Strabismus may also appear on its own, causing eyes to cross or drift outward. Additionally, eye infections such as conjunctivitis (pink eye) can occur, though these are typically temporary and treatable.

Why Pediatric Eye Exams Are Essential

Because many childhood eye diseases develop without noticeable symptoms, routine pediatric eye exams are essential. Vision screenings at school or during pediatric visits can be helpful, but they do not replace a comprehensive eye exam performed by an eye care professional. A thorough exam can detect amblyopia and other vision issues early—when treatment is most effective.

Early intervention may include prescription glasses, eye patching, vision therapy, or other treatments tailored to your child’s needs. The sooner a condition is identified, the better the chances of restoring and preserving healthy vision.

When Should Children Have Their Eyes Examined?

Children should have their first comprehensive eye exam in early childhood, with follow-up exams as recommended by their eye doctor. Additional exams may be needed if a child shows signs of vision problems, struggles in school, squints frequently, or complains of headaches or eye strain.

Take the Next Step at Texas State Optical Seguin

Amblyopia is the most common eye disease in children, but it is also one of the most treatable - when caught early. Regular pediatric eye exams play a critical role in detecting vision problems before they interfere with learning, development, and quality of life.

At Texas State Optical Seguin, we are committed to supporting your child’s eye health at every stage of development. Schedule a pediatric eye exam to ensure your child’s vision is clear, healthy, and ready for the future. Visit our office in Seguin, Texas, or call (830) 310-6198 to book an appointment today.