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Crossed Eyes in Infancy
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Many infants under one year of age look like their eyes are crossed, when in fact, that appearance is just an illusion. If the eyes are truly crossed, early detection and treatment is essential for the best visual result.
The illusion is caused by the fact that most infants have a wide nasal bridge and/or close-set eyes. Either of these features (or a combination of both) hides the white part of the eye on the nasal side, giving the illusion that the eyes are crossed.
Ophthalmologists examine the straightness of the eyes with three methods. We cover first one eye and then the other and look for a shift. We also hold an exam light directly in front of our eye and shine it at the child, noting the location of the light reflex in his or her eye (this is the Hirschberg Light Reflex Test). Normally, it should be very symmetrically-placed in the pupils. Third, we take a photo with a camera that has the flash directly over the lens so that the light reflex in the picture marks the visual axis. Even infants instinctively look at the camera and we record the Photo-Hirschberg Test. We can show you the reflex, which can greatly help you understand the phenomenon.
Of course, if the eyes really are crossed, we will recommend treatment. In addition, we will also measure any refractive error and advise you accordingly. We sometimes find mucus in the tear film from allergies. Often, we recommend Similasan #2 eye drops to be used as needed. This is an over-the-counter, natural antihistamine that is safe for babies, and it does not sting at all.
Your ophthalmologist at Fort Worth Eye Associates can provide you with more information specific to your case. The above information is not intended to replace a personal exam, medical diagnosis, and/or complete treatment description by an ophthalmologist.
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