What is Strabismus?

What Causes Strabismus?

There are many causes of strabismus. Genetic factors, a family history of strabismus, not using glasses when needed, eyelid abnormalities, or disorders in the muscles that control the eye can lead to strabismus. Additionally, some neurological or congenital problems (such as Down syndrome or cerebral palsy) can cause strabismus.

What Are the Symptoms of Strabismus?

A person with strabismus may tilt their head to use both eyes together or show sensitivity to light. Symptoms such as closing one eye while reading, double vision, and headaches can also indicate strabismus. The most typical symptom is eye misalignment (a deviation of one eye).

Causes and Types of Strabismus

In addition to hereditary factors, conditions such as eyelid abnormalities or muscle anomalies in the eyes can lead to strabismus. There are different types of strabismus, such as esotropia (inward turning), exotropia (outward turning), hypertropia (upward turning), and hypotropia (downward turning).

What is Pseudo-Strabismus?

Pseudo-strabismus occurs when the eyes appear to be misaligned even though there is no actual strabismus. This can be due to a flat nasal bridge, facial asymmetry, or eyelid anomalies. Pseudo-strabismus should be diagnosed by doctors. Light-based tests can show that the corneal light reflections are symmetrical, and cover tests can determine that there is no eye movement. Other factors contributing to pseudo-strabismus include unilateral exophthalmos, high myopia, and facial asymmetry.

Strabismus Treatment

The goal of strabismus treatment is to improve visual acuity, correct eye misalignment, if present, fix abnormal head posture, correct double vision, ensure free eye movement, and address cosmetic concerns. Treatment options include:

⬩Correcting refractive errors (vision problems).

⬩Treating amblyopia if present.

⬩Eye exercises.

⬩Surgical methods.

Strabismus Surgery

The aim of strabismus surgery is to restore parallel alignment of the eyes. The surgical procedure involves:

⬩Tightening or loosening the eye muscles.

⬩Using local or general anesthesia.

⬩Employing self-absorbing sutures.

⬩Minimal scarring.

⬩Eyes remain red for approximately 3-4 weeks.

What is Amblyopia?

Amblyopia, or lazy eye, is a permanent vision loss that occurs due to visual impairment for any reason during infancy and early childhood. Amblyopia can be caused by various factors, such as strabismus or congenital cataracts.

Causes and Symptoms of Amblyopia

Amblyopia is usually caused by factors such as strabismus or eyelid abnormalities. Symptoms may include blurry vision, double vision, or eye misalignment.

⬩Strabismus: The eye with the misalignment is not used, leading to reduced vision over time.

⬩Need for glasses: Early intervention with glasses is essential.

⬩Congenital cataracts, eyelid ptosis or other conditions that obstruct vision.

Amblyopia Treatment

⬩Correcting refractive errors; this alone may suffice for treating amblyopia.

⬩Occlusion therapy is the most effective method. The earlier the treatment begins, the more successful the results. It involves covering the healthy eye to force the use of the amblyopic eye. Occlusion therapy is effective until the age of 9.