Question

A newborn baby, just 8 days old, accidentally turned on the flashlight during photography and was photographed within a distance of 1 meter when the baby’s eyes were open. Ask about the potential effects on the baby’s vision and whether it is necessary to take the baby to the hospital for a check-up. Additionally, inquire about how to assess the extent of the impact on vision.

Answer

When using flashlights for newborn photography, due to the baby’s eyes not being fully developed, strong light may cause irritation to the retina and cornea. Newborns have spent 9 months in a dark environment in the womb, so they are more sensitive to light stimulation. After birth, they usually sleep more during the day than at night because they have not yet adapted to the external light environment. When faced with strong light, newborns’ eyes have not yet learned to effectively regulate, and their retinas are still developing, so strong light may cause chemical changes in retinal nerve cells, potentially leading to burns on the fundus and cornea. According to the information provided, exposure to the flashlight during photography may affect the baby’s vision. It is recommended to observe the baby’s eye condition, and if any abnormalities are found, such as persistent eye mucus or other eye symptoms, it is important to take the baby to see a doctor promptly. Additionally, an ophthalmic examination can be scheduled within a few weeks after birth to confirm that vision development is normal. In summary, although a single photographing event may not have a long-term impact on a baby’s vision, maintaining observation and seeking professional advice in a timely manner is crucial.