Do children with Down syndrome have eye problems?
Individuals with Down syndrome are at increased risk for a variety of eye and vision disorders. Fortunately, many of these eye problems can be treated, especially if discovered at an early age. The most common eye findings include: • Refractive errors – Children with Down syndrome are more likely to need glasses than are other children. This may be due to myopia (near-sightedness), hyperopia (far-sightedness), or astigmatism. The refractive errors may develop early in life or near school age. • Strabismus – Between 20% and 60% of individuals with Down syndrome have eyes that are misaligned (strabismus). Esotropia (crossed eyes) is most common while exotopia (eyes that drift out) occurs less frequently. Strabismus is treatable with glasses, patching and/or eye muscle surgery. • Blepharitis – Inflammation of the eyelids with redness at the edge of the lids and crusting around the lashes may occur may cause a feeling of dryness or burning. Treatment is with eyelid hygiene and topical anti
