Strabismus in Children: When to Seek Medical Advice - Ophthalmology

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Strabismus, commonly known as crossed eyes or "斗雞眼" in Mandarin, is a condition where the eyes do not properly align with each other when looking at an object. It can occur in children and may be a cause for concern for many parents. Your child, at 1 year and 2 months, is still quite young, and it is not uncommon for infants and toddlers to exhibit some degree of misalignment in their eyes. However, it is essential to monitor the situation closely.

In general, strabismus can be classified into two main types: esotropia (where one or both eyes turn inward) and exotropia (where one or both eyes turn outward). The condition can be intermittent or constant, and it may affect one eye or both. The causes of strabismus can vary, including muscle imbalances, neurological issues, or refractive errors.

Regarding your concerns, it is important to understand that while some degree of misalignment can be normal in infants, persistent strabismus beyond a certain age may require medical evaluation. Typically, if strabismus is still present by the age of 2 or 3, it is advisable to seek an evaluation from a pediatric ophthalmologist. Early intervention is crucial, as untreated strabismus can lead to amblyopia (lazy eye), where the brain starts to ignore input from one eye, potentially leading to permanent vision problems.

You mentioned that during your visits to the pediatric clinic for vaccinations, the doctors indicated that there was no significant concern. While this is reassuring, it is understandable that you want more clarity on the situation. If you notice that your child's eyes are consistently misaligned, or if you have any doubts about their vision or eye coordination, it is perfectly reasonable to seek a referral to a pediatric ophthalmologist for a comprehensive eye examination.

During the evaluation, the ophthalmologist will assess your child's eye alignment, vision, and overall eye health. They may perform tests to determine if there is any underlying issue contributing to the strabismus. Depending on the findings, treatment options may include glasses, vision therapy, or in some cases, surgery to correct the eye alignment.

In summary, while some misalignment in infants can be normal, it is essential to keep an eye on the situation. If your child is still exhibiting strabismus at 2 years old, it would be wise to consult with a pediatric ophthalmologist. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and help prevent complications such as amblyopia. Trust your instincts as a parent; if you feel concerned, seeking a professional opinion is always a good step.