Like most parents, you are probably documenting your little ones’ childhood by taking lots of photos. But have you noticed a golden glow in one of their eyes? This may not be a trick of the camera’s flash, it can be a warning sign of Coats disease, a rare eye disorder that is diagnosed in children. Eyes On Norbeck, your trusted optometrist, shares what you need to know about this condition.
What is Coats disease?
This refers to a rare, non-hereditary disorder that causes irregular blood vessel development in the retina. When left unattended, this will cause partial or complete detachment of the retina, resulting in decreased vision or even blindness. Coats disease typically affects only one eye, although there are cases when both may also be affected.
The golden glowing eye in flash photography is one indication of the disorder and should prompt a visit to a local optometrist for a comprehensive eye exam. Other symptoms of Coats disease include:
- Strabismus, or crossed eyes
- Leukocoria, which is a white mass behind the lens of the eye
- Deterioration of vision
- Loss of depth perception
- Retinal detachment in later stages
The average age of those who get Coats disease range from 8 to 16 years. About two thirds of children who are diagnosed with the disorder have shown symptoms at age 10. Coats disease is not inherited or linked to race or ethnicity.
What can you do about Coats disease?
Coats disease is progressive, so early diagnosis and intervention might just save your child’s vision. Should your child show symptoms of this disorder, see a trusted eye doctor, like Eyes On Norbeck, immediately. Aside from correcting vision with our range of high-quality eyeglasses and contacts, our specialists can also guide you and your child through a list of treatment options for this disorder.
When in need of high-quality eye care services, turn only to Eyes on Norbeck. We proudly serve Potomac, MD and the nearby areas. Call us today at (301) 238-7199 or fill out this contact form to set an appointment.
