Children who sit close to screens may need an eye check, specialist says

Children who repeatedly move close to a television, tablet, phone or computer screen may be struggling to see clearly and should be assessed by an ophthalmologist, according to Dr. Kardelen Çamber, an ophthalmology specialist at Near East University Hospital.

Halkın Sesi reported that Dr. Çamber said children may not always recognise or explain that their vision is blurred. Instead, they may sit or lean closer to a screen in an effort to see images more clearly.

She said myopia can be one possible cause, while astigmatism, high hyperopia, amblyopia and difficulties with focusing may also lead a child to watch at close range.

Other behaviours that may warrant attention include squinting, tilting the head, watching television with one eye closed and rubbing the eyes frequently, Dr. Çamber said. She advised parents to seek an ophthalmology consultation without delay if they observe such signs.

Dr. Çamber also cautioned that extended close-range screen use may be associated with eye strain, headaches, watery eyes and trouble concentrating. She recommended avoiding screen use in dark rooms, limiting long exposure to very bright images, keeping an appropriate viewing distance and managing overall screen time.

Parents should observe changes in children’s screen-viewing habits and ensure they have regular eye examinations, she said.