Maintaining your eye care involves a multitude of factors, from regular appointments with the doctor to addressing vision problems when you notice symptoms. Strabismus is a condition that commonly impacts children under the age of three but can develop even in adulthood. Make your eye care a priority by learning to recognize the signs of strabismus, and when you should seek professional guidance.

What You Need to Know About Strabismus

What is this condition?

Strabismus occurs when the muscles of the eye fail to operate together, which causes them to become misaligned when focusing on something. With this condition, one eye remains focused on the object you are looking at, while the other may drift inward, outward, up, or down.

What causes it? 

Each eye has six muscles that control the way it moves, but if they don’t function correctly, the eyes can operate independently. This commonly occurs because of neurological issues within the vision center or anatomical anomalies with the muscles themselves. Genetics has also been linked to strabismus, making a child more likely to develop the condition if a parent has it as well.

What are the symptoms?

The most common sign of strabismus is a visible misalignment of the eyes. This is most noticeable when fixating on an object because it causes one or both eyes to drift. When it remains undiagnosed, other symptoms can present, including headaches and difficulty reading, because the text can seem blurred.

What are the treatment options?

There are several treatment options available for this condition, ranging from therapies to surgery. In mild cases, eyeglasses and contact lenses may help correct vision problems like farsightedness that can trigger strabismus. Sometimes vision therapy is recommended to strengthen the muscles and help them work together. In more severe cases, outpatient surgery may be suggested to clip the muscles and help them remain aligned.

If you are looking for a professional to evaluate your vision health, consult with Dr. Michael R. Schmit in Cincinnati, Ohio. With more than 30 years of experience, this doctor provides the eye care services you need, ranging from regular exams to diagnosis of vision conditions like strabismus. To learn more about treatment options, visit them online or call (513) 741-8811.