MAKING MEDICAL INSPECTION EFFECTIVE 



3. ASTIGMATISM 



This is the most common of all eye defects. It results 

 in blurred vision, headache, nervousness, and other kinds of 

 discomfort. It may be associated with either near sight or 

 far sight. 



4. CROSS EYES OR SQUINT 



This is often the result of FAR Sight. It is absolutely 

 necessary to have this defect corrected. In children this can 

 usually be done with glasses alone. If the trouble is not cured 

 the vision of the crossed eye will become poorer and poorer 

 UNTIL AT LAST THIS EYE BECOMES BLIND. 



5. INFLAMED OR RED EYES 



This condition is often caused by a defect in vision, 

 but frequently it is due to INFECTION. That is, some- 

 thing has gotten into the eyes and carried PUS-PRODUC- 

 ING GERMS WITH IT. 



Serious eye disorders are sometimes "caught" from 

 dirty towels, public bathing pools, dirty hands, or dust. 



Each child and grown person should use only his own 

 towel. Red sore eyes ought never to be neglected. Remem- 

 ber that many cases of sore eyes are contagious and that all 

 such cases need the attention of a doctor. 



Peculiar postures, holding the head on one side, squint- 

 ing, miscalling words and headache should always raise the 

 suspicion of possible eye trouble. 



LEGAL COMPULSION 



Two of the states which have framed regulations or enacted 

 laws on medical inspection have provided for compulsory action 

 against parents who fail to act upon notification of disease or 

 defect in their children. 



Colorado, in the law passed in 1909, provided that 



"If the parents or guardian of such child [i.e., one found defective 

 concerning whom notification of need of treatment has been sent] shall 

 fail, neglect, or refuse to have such examination made and treatment be- 

 gun within a reasonable time after such notice has been given, the said 

 principal or superintendent shall notify the State Bureau of Child and An- 

 imal Protection of the facts . . . ." 



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