3 Surprising Ways Your Child's Vision Affects Their Learning at School
Is your child struggling in class? It might not be a lack of focus. Discover three surprising ways vision issues mimic ADHD, and how our specialists can help your child succeed.
Could Your Toddler Have Glaucoma? Early Signs Every Parent Should Know
Many parents think of glaucoma as an eye issue that only affects older adults. However, this serious condition can also develop in babies and young children, making early detection absolutely vital for preserving their sight.
At ABC Children's Eye Specialists, our team of experts, including pediatric ophthalmologist Dr. Brendan Cassidy, M.D., is dedicated to protecting your child's vision. We serve families across Arizona with convenient locations in Phoenix, Mesa, Avondale, Sun City, Gilbert, and Scottsdale, ensuring specialized care is always close to home.
What is childhood glaucoma?
Childhood glaucoma is one of several serious eye diseases where fluid does not drain properly from the eye. This buildup of fluid increases pressure inside the eye, which can damage the optic nerve and lead to permanent vision loss if it is not diagnosed and treated quickly.
While many people believe this condition only impacts seniors, the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus (AAPOS, 2026) notes that glaucoma can develop at any age, including in infants and toddlers. Understanding that young children are also at risk helps parents stay vigilant about their child's eye health.
Early warning signs of glaucoma in toddlers
Because toddlers cannot always tell you when something is wrong with their vision, parents must watch for physical clues. According to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP, 2026), the most frequent visible symptoms in young children include excessive tearing, extreme sensitivity to light, and cloudy or unusually large eyes.
You might also notice your child rubbing their eyes frequently, squinting in normal indoor lighting, or keeping their eyes closed. Recognizing these signs early allows our team to evaluate your child's eyes and begin treatment as soon as possible to protect their developing sight.
How we treat pediatric glaucoma
If your toddler is diagnosed with glaucoma, we will customize a treatment plan to lower the pressure in their eyes. As noted by Duke Health (2024), prescription eyedrops and oral medications are often prescribed as a first step to reduce eye pressure and minimize early optic nerve damage.
If medications are not enough to manage the pressure, surgical options may be necessary to help the fluid drain properly. Our experienced pediatric eye specialists will guide you through every step of the process to ensure your child receives the gentlest, most effective care possible.
Protecting your child's vision starts with paying close attention to these subtle changes. If you notice any unusual symptoms or have concerns about your toddler's eye health, please contact our office to schedule an appointment with our specialists today.
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