Overview
Xerophthalmia is a serious drying of the eyes caused by a lack of vitamin A, and it remains an important cause of preventable childhood blindness in parts of India. It begins with night blindness and dry, dull eyes, and if untreated it can damage the clear front of the eye and destroy sight. Because it responds quickly to vitamin A, spotting the early signs and treating them promptly can save a child's vision.
Symptoms
- Dry, dull eyes that lack their normal shine
- Difficulty seeing in dim light (night blindness)
- Foamy grey patches on the white of the eye
- Softening or clouding of the front of the eye in severe cases
- Frequent eye infections
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently for a child with night blindness or dry, dull eyes — vitamin A treatment can prevent blindness.
Emergency — call 108 or go to the nearest hospital
- Clouding, softening or an ulcer on the front of a child's eye — go to an eye hospital immediately to save sight
Causes
Severe vitamin A deficiency from a poor diet, often alongside malnutrition, repeated infections and measles in young children.