Congenital eye defects are present from birth or shortly after. Most eye problems are not serious and are easily cured, but some require attention from an ophthalmologist. Since newborns have approximately 20/400 vision right after birth, the equivalent of seeing the big “E” on the eye chart, according to the University of Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, it’s not possible to assess their actual vision potential, but diseases that aren’t promptly treated can result in vision loss.
Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis, inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane that lines the lower eyelid and part of the eye, often affects newborns. Chemical conjunctivitis from use of prophylactic eye drops after birth needs no treatment and clears up within 24 hours. Conjunctivitis acquired during the birth process from sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea, chlamydia or herpes simplex virus occurs within a few days after birth and requires prompt treatment to prevent serious vision loss from corneal scarring or other complications. Conjunctivitis symptoms include eyelid swelling and copious amounts of discharge from the eye, lead author Mamta Fuloria, M.D., reports in the January 1, 2002, edition of “American Family Physician.”
Conjunctivitis treatments include antibiotics or anti-viral medications administered orally, intravenously or instilled as eye drops.
Blocked Tear Ducts
Around 20 percent of newborns have blocked tear ducts, which prevent tears from draining properly, Deborah VanderVeen, M.D., reports in the Children’s Hospital Boston publication “Pediatric Views.” Babies' eyes with blocked tear ducts may look weepy or wet, and tears may course down their cheeks even when they’re not crying. Mucus may accumulate in the corners of the eyes. Ninety-five percent of cases resolve spontaneously before one year. Ducts that don’t open on their own can be surgically repaired under general anesthesia.
Cataracts
Congenital cataracts, clouding of the lens in the eye, occur in around 0.4 percent of newborns, the All About Vision website states. Congenital cataracts can occur after maternal infection with diseases such as rubella or measles during pregnancy, from drugs taken during pregnancy such as tetracycline, or as an inherited tendency. Cataracts significant enough to impair vision may be surgically repaired between 6 weeks and 3 months of age. While most adults receive an artificial lens implant after cataract surgery, babies may be fitted with contact lenses or eyeglasses instead, to prevent interference with normal eye growth and development.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma refers to a group of diseases that damages the optic nerve and elevates intraocular pressure. Symptoms of glaucoma in infants include large, cloudy, watery eyes, light sensitivity and nystagmus, jerky or jittery eyes, according to the International Glaucoma Association. Medications in the form of drops or oral medications to decrease the amount of fluid produced by the eye or increase drainage are given. Surgery, which may need to be done more than once, may also be necessary.
References
- University of Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary: Your Baby's Eyes
- All About Vision: Congenital Cataracts
- International Glaucoma Association: Symptoms of Glaucoma in Babies and Children
- American Family Physician: The Newborn Exam; Mamta Fuloria, M.D.
- "Pediatric Views": Children's Hospital Boston; Blocked Tear Ducts in Infants
