Apr 10th 2024
Posted by AccuSpire
How Down Syndrome Affects Vision: Early Intervention and Common Eye Issues
Understanding Down Syndrome
Before understanding how Down syndrome is associated with vision, let us first learn about Down syndrome. Down syndrome is a genetic disorder first identified in 1862, named after John Langdon Down, an English physician. It occurs in 1 out of every 800 births in the U.S., with nearly 6,000 babies born with this condition annually. Vision-related issues are among the genetic characteristics associated with Down syndrome.
Importance of Early Intervention
For babies with this condition, early intervention is crucial to preserving vision and managing symptoms. A comprehensive eye examination is recommended for children diagnosed with Down syndrome to check for issues such as strabismus, nystagmus, and cataracts. This examination should be conducted before the baby reaches 6 months of age. Additionally, the eyes of children should be examined annually to promptly address any problems. Many children with Down syndrome require corrective lenses due to the high prevalence of vision-related issues.
Common Vision Issues in Down Syndrome
According to the National Down Syndrome Society, some common vision issues faced by individuals with Down syndrome include strabismus, cataracts, glaucoma, nystagmus, blepharitis, tear duct abnormalities, keratoconus, refractive errors, upward slanting eyelids, skin folds between the eyes and nose, and white spots in the iris.
Challenges with Eyewear
Beyond visual challenges, finding a suitable pair of eyeglasses can also be problematic for those with Down syndrome due to the typically flat nose bridge and shorter distance between the nose and temples, necessitating special eyewear.
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