How is astigmatism in children's eyes treated?

Jul 21, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng

Introduction

In general, childhood eye astigmatism may be caused by irregular corneal development, uneven lens development, conjunctivitis, keratitis, keratoconus, or other similar conditions. Patients can visit a reputable hospital to choose from general treatment, pharmacological treatment, or surgical treatment options. In daily life, it is important to help children develop good eye habits and maintain proper reading and writing postures.

Generally, children's eye astigmatism may be caused by irregular corneal development, uneven lens development, conjunctivitis, keratitis, keratoconus, and other factors. Patients can visit a regular hospital for general treatment, medication, or surgical treatment. A detailed explanation is as follows:

1. Irregular Corneal Development

The cornea is an important structure involved in the eye's refraction. If a child's cornea does not develop smoothly and evenly in shape, it may cause light entering the eye to fail to focus accurately on the retina, resulting in astigmatism. Parents should prevent children from rubbing their eyes, to avoid external pressure on the cornea. Regular vision check-ups are recommended to monitor corneal development.

2. Uneven Lens Development

If the lens develops unevenly in density or shape, it may affect light refraction, leading to astigmatism. It is important to ensure children receive balanced nutrition, including foods rich in vitamin A and vitamin C, such as carrots and blueberries. Limit children's screen time to avoid prolonged lens accommodation strain.

3. Conjunctivitis

When conjunctivitis is caused by bacterial or viral infection or allergy, conjunctival congestion and swelling may affect corneal shape, indirectly causing astigmatism. Bacterial infections can be treated with medications such as tobramycin eye drops, levofloxacin eye drops, or erythromycin ointment under a doctor's guidance. Viral infections can be treated with acyclovir eye drops. Maintain good eye hygiene and avoid letting children rub their eyes with dirty hands.

4. Keratitis

Inflammation caused by corneal infection or injury can lead to corneal edema and shape changes, resulting in astigmatism, often accompanied by symptoms such as eye pain and photophobia. Treatment may include medications such as natamycin eye drops, fluconazole eye drops, or tobramycin-dexamethasone eye drops, under a doctor's guidance. Avoid exposure to strong light during treatment and ensure adequate eye rest.

5. Keratoconus

This condition involves progressive thinning and forward protrusion of the cornea, leading to gradually worsening astigmatism. Prompt medical evaluation is necessary, and rigid gas permeable contact lenses may be used for correction under medical guidance. Surgery may be required if the condition progresses. Regular follow-up examinations of corneal shape are important to monitor disease progression.

In daily life, help children develop good eye habits, maintain proper reading and writing posture, ensure adequate sleep for sufficient eye rest, and undergo regular vision check-ups to detect and address problems early.

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