Strabismus

What is Strabismus?

Strabismus is an eye alignment problem where one eye may turn inward, outward, upward, or downward.

Who is affected by Strabismus?

Strabismus primarily affects children under six years old, with an estimated 5% of children experiencing it. It is rare in adults, usually arising from conditions like stroke, tumors, or vascular diseases.

What are the effects of Strabismus?

Strabismus can cause initial double vision in children, but over time, the brain may ignore the image from the turned eye, leading to permanently reduced vision and amblyopia (lazy eye).

How is Strabismus treated?

Treatment options include glasses, prism lenses, vision therapy, and surgery. Early detection and treatment improve outcomes for individuals with strabismus.

What causes Strabismus?

Strabismus can result from weak eye muscles, hereditary factors, or uncorrected vision issues like hyperopia or astigmatism, typically developing in the first six years of life.

Will Strabismus in children go away with age?

 No, strabismus does not disappear with age. Without treatment, it can worsen and lead to serious binocular vision problems.

How is Strabismus diagnosed?

Parents often notice eye misalignment. A comprehensive eye exam by an optometrist, recommended from age three, helps determine if a child has strabismus.