Strabismus is a condition in which the two eyes do not look in the same direction. It is like having two cameras that should take the same photo, but one of them is slightly misaligned.
Types of strabismus
- Convergent: one eye turns towards the nose
- Divergent: one eye turns outwards
- Vertical: one eye looks higher or lower than the other
Strabismus can be constant or appear only occasionally, for example when the child is tired.
In children: when to worry
In the first months of life it is normal for a newborn's eyes to be occasionally misaligned. However, if after 4-6 months you notice that one eye turns, even only at times, it is important to have your child seen by an ophthalmologist.
Strabismus is not just a cosmetic issue: if the brain receives different images from the two eyes, it can learn to ignore one of them, and this can lead to amblyopia (lazy eye). That is why the sooner it is treated, the better.
Who treats it and how
The diagnosis and treatment of strabismus are the responsibility of the ophthalmologist, often together with the orthoptist. Depending on the case, treatment may involve:
- glasses, when strabismus is linked to a vision problem such as hyperopia;
- occlusion (patching) of one eye, on a schedule decided by the ophthalmologist;
- in some cases, orthoptic exercises or surgery on the eye muscles.
At Ottica Paoletti we make the prescribed glasses, including for the youngest children, taking care of size, lightness and centring.
Concerned about your child's eyes?
Drop by our store in Pieve di Soligo or book an eye test: if we notice something that deserves further investigation, we will advise you to see an ophthalmologist.
Or call us on 0438 83409.