Understanding Strabismus (Crossed Eyes)
Strabismus occurs when the eyes don't align properly, leading to an imbalance in eye muscle control. This condition can cause one eye to turn in, out, up, or down, creating visual discomfort and confusion. The eyes may not move in unison, resulting in challenges with depth perception and the brain receiving conflicting images. If left untreated, strabismus can lead to amblyopia, commonly known as "lazy eye."
Types and Causes of Strabismus
Strabismus can be categorized according to the direction in which the eye turns.
- Esotropia: Inward turning
- Exotropia: Outward turning
- Hypertropia: Upward turning
- Hypotropia: Downward turning
Other classifications include frequency (constant or intermittent), involvement of the same eye (unilateral), and alternation between the right and left eye (alternating). The causes of strabismus can range from eye muscle problems and nerve issues to conditions affecting the control center in the brain.
Symptoms of Strabismus Include:
- Eyes that appear misaligned
- Eyes that don’t move together
- Frequent blinking or squinting, especially in bright light
- Tilting the head to see objects
- Faulty depth perception
- Double vision
Contact Opto-mization today to schedule your comprehensive strabismus evaluation.
Risk Factors for Developing Strabismus:
- Family history of strabismus
- Significant uncorrected farsightedness (hyperopia)
- Medical conditions like Down Syndrome or cerebral palsy
- Previous stroke or head injury
We offer comprehensive eye exams to diagnose strabismus accurately. Our evaluation includes various tests, such as visual acuity measurement, refraction to determine corrective lens power, and alignment and focusing assessments.
Treatment Options for
Strabismus:
- Eyeglasses or contact lenses
- Prism lenses to reduce eye-turning
- Vision therapy to improve eye coordination
- Eye muscle surgery to correct alignment
Our experienced eye doctors will work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. By addressing the underlying causes of strabismus, we aim to enhance eye alignment, visual comfort, and overall quality of life.