Strabismus is a constant or an intermittent misalignment of an eye. It is a vision condition where eyes do not align properly and both eyes are not able to focus on the same object. If strabismus is not treated, it can cause amblyopia (decreased vision) and permanent vision loss. Different treatments are available to treat strabismus but usually they are not considered as cure. This article gives information about strabismus in children.
Causes of Strabismus in Children
- It is caused by an imbalance in the muscles which control the positioning of the eye.
- Starbismus is not caused by a neurologic or general medical disorder but it is a serious problem.
- It should be treated as soon as possible and don’t ignore it.
- Eye examination by either an optometrist or an ophthalmologist is essential.
Suggestions
- This vision condition may cause amblyopia (decreased vision) in a young child and diplopia (double vision) in an older child.
- Sometimes parents notice strabismus because the child covers or squints one eye.
- Children should be taken for eye checkup regularly to measure vision and detect this abnormal condition starting at few months of age.
- Older children can go for eye exam more regularly. Children with strabismus require to go for eye checkup by an optometrist or ophthalmologist.
- If it is a minor or intermittent defect, treatment may not be necessary. But if strabismus is progressing or is severe, treatment is required.
How to treat strabismus in children
If a child has mild condition, doctor may prescribe eye glasses to improve the eye positioning by modifying the reaction of the patient to focus. Sometimes doctor may recommend to place a patch over the eye which is functioning normally.
In severe stages, eye muscle surgery is needed to prevent vision loss and it straightens the eyes.
Some of the innovative approaches given by Children’s Hospital Boston for strabismus in children include:
- Adjustable sutures in eye muscle surgery
- Botox injections
Do not neglect this vision condition and take your children to an eye doctor immediately if you observe strabismus.
