Pediatrics

Pediatric Ophthalmology: Caring for Your Children’s Eyes in Dothan, AL and Panama City, FL

At Eye Center South, we understand that caring for a child’s vision requires more than medical expertise — it requires patience, trust, and a gentle approach.

Our pediatric ophthalmology services are led by Dr. Irene Ludwig, who specializes in diagnosing and treating eye conditions in infants, children, and adolescents.

Care Designed for Children

Children often cannot fully describe what they are seeing or experiencing. That’s why pediatric eye care requires a specialized approach.

Dr. Ludwig is trained to evaluate and treat young patients in a way that helps them feel comfortable, safe, and at ease — making exams more effective and less stressful for both children and parents.

Conditions We Treat

We provide diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of pediatric eye conditions, including:

  • Strabismus (crossed or misaligned eyes)

  • Amblyopia (lazy eye)

  • Refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism)

  • Nystagmus

  • Blocked Tear Ducts

Early detection and treatment are essential for healthy visual development, and our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
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A Positive Experience for Every Child

We are committed to creating a welcoming environment where children feel comfortable and parents feel confident.

Our goal is to make each visit a positive experience while providing the highest level of care for your child’s vision and long-term eye health.

Pediatric Ophthalmology in Dothan, Panama City & Destin
Strabismus

Strabismus

Strabismus is a condition where a person’s eyes do not properly align.

Pediatric Ophthalmology in Dothan, Panama City & Destin
Amblyopia

Amblyopia

Amblyopia can be caused by unequal refractive errors, crossed eyes, misaligned eyes (strabismus), or other abnormalities.

Pediatric Ophthalmology in Dothan, Panama City & Destin
Nystagmus

Nystagmus

Sometimes called “dancing eyes” is a vision condition in which the eyes make repetitive, uncontrolled movements.

Pediatric Ophthalmology in Dothan, Panama City & Destin
Blocked Tear Duct

Blocked Tear Duct

A blocked tear duct is when the eye’s tear drainage system is either partially or completely blocked.

FAQs

What are some signs that your child may need to see a Pediatric Ophthalmologist?

If your pediatrician, optometrist or you notice a problem with your child’s eyes, you may need to see a pediatric ophthalmologist. Signs that a child may have an eye problem include:

  • Sensitivity to light

  • Crossed or wandering eyes

  • Persistent pus or crust, redness, or watery eyes

  • Frequently rubbing their eyes

  • Squinting

  • Tilting their head to see


Many times, a primary care physician will recommend a comprehensive eye exam for:

  • Premature Babies

  • Those born with a condition that increases their risk of eye problems, like Down syndrome

  • Children with a learning disability or developmental delay

  • Those with a family history of childhood eye disorders.