Strabismus: Understanding the Condition and Treatment Options

Strabismus: Understanding the Condition and Treatment Options

Strabismus, also known as crossed eyes, is a condition characterized by an eye that turns in a different direction than the other eye. This misalignment can be constant or intermittent, and the affected eye may turn upward, downward, inward, or outward. Strabismus can affect both children and adults and can interfere with normal vision development, causing visual impairment or even blindness if left untreated. Fortunately, there are various treatment options available that can correct or manage this condition.

Causes of Strabismus

Strabismus occurs when the muscles that control eye movement do not work together properly. This may be due to a problem with the brain’s ability to coordinate the eyes, the muscles that control eye movement, or the nerves that transmit information to the muscles. Several factors can contribute to the development of strabismus, including genetic predisposition, muscle or nerve disorders, and certain medical conditions such as cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, or brain tumors.

Symptoms of Strabismus

The most obvious symptom of strabismus is the misalignment of the eyes. Other common symptoms include double vision, blurry vision, and difficulty with depth perception. Children with strabismus may also experience amblyopia, commonly known as lazy eye, where one eye becomes dominant, and the other eye becomes weaker due to lack of use. Amblyopia can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated early on.

Treatment Options for Strabismus

The most common treatment options for strabismus include corrective lenses, prism glasses, eye patches, vision therapy, and surgery. Corrective lenses can correct refractive errors that may be causing the eye misalignment. Prism glasses can help redirect the image seen by the misaligned eye to the correct location in the brain. Eye patches can be used to stimulate and strengthen the weaker eye in cases where amblyopia is present. Vision therapy involves training the eyes and brain to work together properly, while surgery may be necessary to adjust the alignment of the eyes.

Dr. Dolan from 2020 Vision in Rochester Hills MI is an experienced optometrist who can diagnose and manage strabismus. He provides comprehensive eye exams, specialized vision therapy, and surgical referrals when needed. If you or your child is experiencing symptoms of strabismus, don’t hesitate to call 248 375 0040 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Dolan today. Early detection and treatment can prevent long-term vision problems and improve the quality of life for those affected by this condition.