Strabismus Details
A condition where the eyes do not properly align with each other when looking at an object.
Book ConsultationWhat is Strabismus?
Strabismus, commonly known as a squint or crossed eyes, is a condition where the eyes do not properly align with each other when looking at an object. One eye may turn inwards, outwards, upwards, or downwards while the other eye looks straight ahead. This misalignment can be constant or intermittent and may affect one or both eyes. Strabismus is one of the most common eye conditions in children, affecting approximately 2-4% of the population. If left untreated, particularly in children, it can lead to amblyopia (lazy eye), where the brain ignores signals from the affected eye, resulting in permanent vision loss in that eye. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to preserve vision and restore proper eye alignment.
Strabismus Symptoms
- Eyes that appear to point in different directions
- Double vision (diplopia)
- Blurred vision
- Eyes that do not move together
- Squinting or closing one eye in bright sunlight
- Tilting the head to look at things
- Poor depth perception
- Eye strain or headaches
Strabismus Causes
- Problems with the eye muscles that control movement
- Nerve problems affecting the eye muscles
- Genetics and family history of strabismus
- Refractive errors such as long-sightedness
- Medical conditions such as cerebral palsy or Down syndrome
- Eye injuries or trauma
- Brain tumors or other neurological conditions
- Stroke or other vascular problems affecting the brain
Treatment for Strabismus
- Glasses or contact lenses to correct refractive errors
- Eye exercises and vision therapy to strengthen eye coordination
- Prism lenses to reduce double vision
- Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections to relax overactive eye muscles
- Eye muscle surgery to adjust the length or position of eye muscles
- Patching the stronger eye to treat associated amblyopia
- Atropine eye drops as an alternative to patching for amblyopia
When to See a Doctor
You should see an eye specialist if you notice any misalignment of your child's eyes, if you experience double vision, or if you have difficulty with depth perception. For children, early screening is crucial — all children should have their eyes checked by age 3, or earlier if there is a family history of strabismus or amblyopia. Adults who develop sudden strabismus should seek immediate medical attention, as this may indicate a serious underlying condition such as a stroke or brain tumor.
Related Conditions
A clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye, leading to decreased vision.
Inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin clear tissue that lies over the white part of the eye.
A diabetes complication that affects the eyes, caused by damage to blood vessels of the retina.
A condition that occurs when tears aren't able to provide adequate lubrication for the eyes.
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