Is It Normal for My Baby to Have Eyelashes in Her Eyes?

Q: Is It Normal for My Baby to Have Eyelashes in Her Eyes?

Hello, Miss： The condition described above is referred to as "lower eyelid dermatochalasis with eyelash entropion," which is commonly seen in children of Asian descent. <br>This condition typically does not present with severe symptoms (a small number of children may show signs o

A foreign object has entered the eye..?

My daughter is currently eight months old, and she often has eyelashes that seem to get stuck in her eyes.
She doesn't appear to feel anything, which is surprising because adults would definitely feel discomfort or irritation in such a situation.
Additionally, it seems like her lower eyelashes are pressed against her eyes, but she also doesn't seem to notice.
However, she has a habit of rubbing her eyes.
Is this situation considered normal or abnormal?

Xiao Xin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/11/28

Dr. Liu Jingxian reply Ophthalmology

Hello, Miss: The condition described above is referred to as "lower eyelid dermatochalasis with eyelash entropion," which is commonly seen in children of Asian descent.
This condition typically does not present with severe symptoms (a small number of children may show signs of corneal damage), and it often improves as the child ages and facial development progresses, which can lead to it being overlooked.
However, there are individual differences among children, so if there are any concerns related to "lower eyelid dermatochalasis with eyelash entropion," we welcome you to visit the ophthalmology department at the City United Hospital for consultation.
Wishing you health, Ophthalmology Department, Taipei City United Hospital, Zhongxing Branch, Dr.
Liu Jing-Hsi.

Reply Date: 2005/11/28

More Info

It is not uncommon for infants to have eyelashes or other small debris get into their eyes. Babies have a different sensory perception compared to adults, which can make them less aware of certain irritations. In your case, your eight-month-old daughter seems to have eyelashes that occasionally end up in her eyes, and she does not appear to show discomfort, which can be typical for infants.
The phenomenon you are describing, where the lower eyelashes seem to be lying against the eye, could be related to a condition known as "entropion," where the eyelid turns inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the cornea. This condition is more common in certain populations and can be seen in infants. While it may not cause immediate discomfort, it can lead to irritation or even corneal damage over time if not addressed.
It's important to note that infants often have a natural reflex to rub their eyes, which can sometimes exacerbate the situation. If your daughter is rubbing her eyes frequently, it could be a sign of irritation, whether from eyelashes, dryness, or other factors.
In most cases, as children grow and their facial structures develop, such conditions may improve on their own. However, every child is different, and some may require medical intervention. If you notice any signs of redness, excessive tearing, or if your daughter starts to show signs of discomfort, it would be wise to consult a pediatric ophthalmologist. They can perform a thorough examination to determine if there is an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

Regular eye check-ups are essential for children, especially if there are any concerns about their eye health. Pediatric ophthalmologists are trained to assess and treat eye conditions in children, ensuring that any potential issues are identified and managed early on.
In summary, while it may be normal for infants to have eyelashes in their eyes without showing discomfort, it is crucial to monitor the situation. If you have any concerns about your daughter's eye health or if her symptoms change, seeking professional medical advice is always the best course of action. Early intervention can prevent complications and ensure your child's vision develops properly.

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