Most colour deficiencies are hereditary, but some can occur in certain eye diseases or as a side-effect of medication.
As part of our comprehensive eye exam we carry out colour vision screening using an Ishihara Test. This will detect the most usual form of Red/Green deficiency.
We can also carry out a City University Colour test to detect the rarer forms of colour deficiency, e.g. Blue/Yellow.
An example plate from an Ishihara colour test
Eye exams are free under the NHS for those under 16, and for those in full time education until they turn 19.
Most children have excellent sight and do not need to wear glasses. Some children may have vision screening done at primary school.
Children do not always know that their vision is poor. If you have any concerns about your child’s eyes, or if there is a history of Squint or Lazy eye in the family, do not wait for the vision screening at school. Problems that are picked up early are more easily treatable.
Your child does not need to be able to read or talk to have a sight test. We can use a special light (called a Retinoscope) and pictures to assess vision. We understand that having your eyes tested can be scary for a child, so try to keep it fun!
More about Children’s eye tests here.
