What Is Strabismus and How Is It Treated?
Strabismus is a condition that affects the alignment of the eyes, often leading to vision impairment. Understanding this condition, its causes, and treatment options guides individuals toward appropriate care. With the support of advancements in vision therapy, strabismus is a manageable condition.
What Is Vision Impairment?
Vision impairment refers to reduced visual ability that cannot be corrected with standard solutions like glasses or lenses. It ranges from mild difficulties in seeing distant objects to severe loss of sight. Vision impairment may result from various factors, including genetics, aging, illnesses, or injuries affecting the eyes and related structures.
This condition also includes issues related to binocular vision, or how both eyes work together. When the eyes do not properly align or focus, it may interfere with depth perception, clarity, and overall visual functions. Consulting a neuro-optometrist helps with the diagnosis and treatment of vision issues.
What Is Strabismus?
Strabismus, commonly called “crossed eyes” or “wandering eye,” occurs when the eyes are not properly aligned. One or both eyes may turn inward, outward, upward, or downward. This misalignment can be constant or intermittent, manifesting at specific times or under particular conditions.
This condition can develop at any age and may impact one’s ability to maintain single, clear, and focused vision. It is more frequently identified in children but can also present in adults. This may be due to other health or visual factors, which a specialist can expertly assess.
What Causes It?
The cause of strabismus varies from case to case, but it often develops due to issues with the muscles and nerves around the eyes or the parts of the brain responsible for controlling eye movements. Neurological or genetic conditions can also play a role. Other influencing factors include trauma that damages the eyes or surrounding areas, untreated vision problems, or underlying health conditions like stroke or diabetes. Heredity is another factor, as strabismus can run in families.
What Are the Symptoms?
Symptoms of strabismus go beyond visible misalignment. Individuals may experience double vision, frequent squinting, or an inability to focus on a single point. Children might exhibit behaviors like tilting their heads to improve their vision or covering one eye to block conflicting images.
People with strabismus may report headaches, eye strain, or feelings of visual fatigue. This may be especially apparent after reading or concentrating for extended periods. Lazy eye (amblyopia), reduced depth perception, and difficulty tracking objects can also occur.
How Is It Treated?
Treatments for strabismus depend on the specific type, cause, and severity of the condition. Options range from eyewear to vision therapy. Glasses may correct refractive errors contributing to eye misalignment, while vision therapy programs help improve coordination between the eyes and brain.
An advanced approach to treatment is neuro-optometric rehabilitation. This therapy involves specialized exercises and tools to enhance how the brain processes visual information. This rehabilitation approach may be effective in improving binocular vision and reducing symptoms associated with strabismus.
Seek Expert Care Today
Understanding strabismus and its treatments involves exploring several aspects of vision health. From its causes to symptoms and effective treatment options like neuro-optometric rehabilitation, there are paths toward improved alignment and visual function. Addressing symptoms early can lead to better outcomes for those experiencing misalignment. If you or a family member shows signs of strabismus, consult an eye care professional to explore potential treatment options.
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