Infant Strabismus: Debunking Common Myths About Early Eye Health
Debunking myths about infant strabismus, Prof. Dr. Aysel Pelit emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and treatment for optimal visual development. Learn why early intervention is crucial for children with strabismus. Expert insights on common myths and the importance of timely treatment to prevent long-term visual and psychological issues.
Editors 
Infant Strabismus: Debunking Common Myths About Early Eye Health
Early Detection of Strabismus Is Critical for Healthy Vision
The Turkish Ophthalmology Association (TOA), one of Turkey's oldest medical organizations founded in 1928, is raising awareness about congenital strabismus. Speaking during the 58th National Congress held in Antalya from November 20-24, 2024, Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus Specialist Prof. Dr. Aysel Pelit shared critical insights on common misconceptions about strabismus in infants.
Myth: Newborns Can’t See
Many parents believe newborns cannot see, but this is a misconception. Prof. Pelit clarified: “Newborns can perceive objects in their peripheral vision and start focusing on objects in front of them within weeks. The first six months mark a crucial period of rapid visual development, followed by continued growth until the age of 3.”
Parents who think “Babies can’t express themselves, so why take them to a doctor?” are mistaken. Prof. Pelit emphasized that specialized pediatric eye exams can detect issues like refractive errors even at this early stage.
Myth: Strabismus Will Resolve on Its Own
Another dangerous myth is that strabismus will naturally disappear as the baby grows. Prof. Pelit warned that strabismus could signal underlying conditions such as brain diseases, cataracts, or retinal tumors. “Every infant with strabismus should undergo an eye exam without delay,” she advised. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital not only for correcting the condition but also for addressing potential serious health issues.
Myth: Wait Until School Age for Surgery
Some believe that corrective strabismus surgery should wait until school age. Prof. Pelit refuted this claim: “Delaying treatment risks permanent visual impairments such as amblyopia (lazy eye) and a lack of depth perception. Early intervention can prevent these complications, allowing the child to lead a normal life with proper binocular vision.”
Myth: Glasses Increase Prescription Strength
Parents often worry that prescribing glasses for children with strabismus will worsen their eyesight. Prof. Pelit explained that this is unfounded. “Glasses do not increase prescription strength. On the contrary, they can improve vision clarity, prevent amblyopia, and even help correct strabismus in some cases.”
The Importance of Early Intervention
Early eye exams for infants are essential to safeguard their visual and neurological development. Prof. Pelit highlighted the psychological toll untreated strabismus can have on a child, affecting self-esteem and social interactions. Timely treatment not only corrects vision problems but also supports mental and emotional well-being.
Source: www.medicentertv.com
