If you notice that your child's eyes seem crossed or misaligned all the time, or if they seem to wander after the first couple of months, the problem could be strabismus. Talk to your G.P. who may refer you to an ophthalmologist. Remember, the earlier strabismus is detected the more successfully it can be treated.
Routine eye exams
Sometimes, a crossed eye may only be very slight and therefore not so easy to detect. Routine eye exams are the best form of detecting strabismus in these cases. When your baby is born the paediatrician will perform a screening eye exam to check for infections or structural problems with the eye. Your baby’s eyes should be tested again at six months. At this stage, your ophthalmologist will be able to:
- Test their sight
- Detect nearsightedness
- Detect farsightedness and astigmatism
- See how well a baby’s eyes work together
If your child is suffering from strabismus, the six month eye test will allow for early detection. It is recommended that another eye test is scheduled when your child is around two and a half or three years of age.
Find out more about the treatment of strabismus.
