Color Blindness: Learn How to Identify the Condition in Children

Identifying the signs of color blindness during childhood is essential to ensure adequate support in academic and social development.

Color blindness, also called dyschromatopsia or dyschromopsia, is a genetic condition characterized by an anomaly in distinguishing certain colors. It is estimated that it affects between 8 and 10% of the world’s population, often going unnoticed during childhood, which can have an impact on the educational and social development of these children.

Mayra Melo, an ophthalmologist at CBV-Hospital de Olhos, explains that early identification of color blindness is essential to ensure that the child receives the necessary support. “Parents should pay attention to signs such as difficulty distinguishing basic colors, such as red and green, or when the child frequently changes color while drawing or coloring,” she advises.

It is also common for parents to notice a certain preference for neutral-colored clothing or a frequency of difficulty in activities that involve color differentiation, such as games and activities. “In many cases, the child may experience frustration or lack of interest in school activities that involve colors, which can be mistakenly interpreted as a lack of attention or interest,” warns the specialist.

Diagnosis of color blindness

The diagnosis of color blindness is made by an ophthalmologist, using specific tests such as Ishihara, which evaluates color perception. The ophthalmologist emphasizes that, although there is no cure for color blindness, early diagnosis allows for guidance and adaptation of the child to best cope with the condition. “The use of appropriate tools, such as school supplies with strong contrasts and the use of glasses or lenses with special filters, can make a difference in a child’s academic development and self-esteem,” he says.

She also stresses the importance of raising awareness among educators and parents about colour blindness, so that the condition is recognised and treated with due care. “Often, the diagnosis is made only when the child is already at school, which can delay the implementation of measures to improve their performance. Therefore, it is essential that, at the slightest sign of difficulty with colours, parents seek advice from an ophthalmologist,” she says.

Therefore, the ophthalmologist reiterates the importance of observing your child to ask for help as early as possible. “Being aware of the signs from an early age and seeking a diagnosis can change the trajectory of a colorblind child, ensuring they have the tools they need to develop to their full potential,” he concludes.

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.