Question

A 4-month-old baby is diagnosed with strabismus. The mother is worried about the condition. What should be done?

1) Observe the baby's eye movements over the next few months.
2) Seek immediate medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause of strabismus.
3) Administer eye drops to correct the misalignment.
4) Apply warm compresses to the baby's eyes.

Answer 1

Immediate medical evaluation by a pediatric ophthalmologist is necessary if a 4-month-old baby is diagnosed with strabismus to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. Eye drops or warm compresses are not treatments for strabismus.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a 4-month-old baby is diagnosed with strabismus, the most appropriate course of action is to seek immediate medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause of strabismus. While some eye misalignment can occur in infants and may resolve on its own, persistent strabismus can lead to vision loss or amblyopia (lazy eye) if not addressed timely. Early intervention by a pediatric ophthalmologist can include various treatments such as eye exercises, glasses, or possibly surgery to correct the misalignment. Eye drops or warm compresses are not standard treatments for strabismus. Moreover, it is important to note that while neonatal conjunctivitis, which can be caused by pathogens acquired during a vaginal delivery, is treated with antibiotic drops or ointments, strabismus is a separate condition requiring specialized care.