Strabismus

• Lazy Eye
• Turned eye
• Crossed eyes

Strabismus can affect individuals of all ages, but it is most commonly seen in children. Approximately four percent of children experience strabismus. However, it is important to note that strabismus can also occur in adults. The condition affects both males and females equally. While there may be instances where strabismus runs in families, many individuals with strabismus do not have any relatives with the condition.

Strabismus progresses through different stages, affecting both children and adults differently. In children, when one eye turns, the brain learns to ignore or suppress the image from the misaligned eye, relying more on the straight or better-seeing eye. This can cause problems with depth perception and seeing in 3D as well as a reduction in the vision of the misaligned eye. In adults, however, they may experience double vision because their brain is already used to receiving input from both eyes and can't ignore the image from the turned eye. Each person's experience with strabismus is unique, so it's important to consult with an eye care professional who can suggest the correct strabismus treatment, which may include glasses, patching treatment, exercises, or strabismus surgery.

Treating strabismus is most effective when started at a young age, but it can be addressed at any stage of life. Straightening the eyes is possible and can lead to improved side vision.

Strabismus treatment in children can be non-surgical and may involve options like eye drops, patching of the stronger eye, exercises, or glasses. If strabismus surgery is needed, it is generally recommended to be done earlier in life (preferably within 6 months of the onset of the crossed eye) to increase the chances of developing some binocular vision (the ability to use both eyes together and see “3D”).

An ophthalmologist, after conducting a comprehensive eye examination, including an evaluation of the inner parts of the eye, will recommend the most suitable crossed eye treatment approach, which can involve optical, medical, or surgical therapy.

The crossed eye treatment goals for strabismus focus on improving or preserving vision, straightening the eyes, and restoring binocular vision. Sometimes, covering or patching the stronger eye is necessary to improve vision in the weaker eye prior to any surgical intervention.

Depending on the underlying cause of strabismus, crossed eye treatment may involve surgical repositioning of unbalanced eye muscles, cataract removal, correction of other contributing factors, or carefully administered botox injections where appropriate.

Remember, each person's strabismus treatment plan will be tailored to their specific needs and circumstances, so consulting with an eye care professional is essential for personalised care.