What strabismus is
Strabismus is the medical term for crossed eyes: the two eyes look in different directions. It is often inherited, but it can also develop with conditions such as a brain tumour, retinal damage, diabetes or cerebral palsy. Seeing a doctor early improves the chance of a good result.
Types of strabismus
The condition is classified by the direction in which the eye turns:
- Esotropia: inward
- Exotropia: outward
- Hypertropia: upward
- Hypotropia: downward
Causes
Problems with the eye muscles can cause strabismus, but in most cases the cause is a disorder of the neuromuscular system. Normally the brain receives visual signals from both eyes. When there is nerve damage or some of the eye muscles are weak, the brain fails to receive, or chooses to ignore, the signal from the weaker eye.
Strabismus and nystagmus
The two are sometimes confused but are different conditions. In strabismus each eye points in a different direction; in nystagmus the eyes make rhythmic, uncontrolled movements. Both can lead to lasting vision problems if left untreated.
Treatment options
To decide on a suitable treatment, the patient first has a comprehensive assessment. The treatment depends on the type of strabismus, its severity and the underlying cause.
Eye patches
Crossed eyes caused by a lazy eye may be treated with patching. A patch over the stronger eye makes the weaker eye work harder, and with repetition this can help correct the misalignment.
Corrective lenses (glasses or contact lenses)
Another common non-surgical treatment. Corrective lenses improve vision and can help straighten the eyes.
Orthoptic therapy (eye muscle exercises)
Orthoptic therapy is a structured programme that helps patients strengthen the eye muscles and gain control of their movement. The exercises aim to increase the muscles' capacity to keep the eyes straight, and to improve coordination and alignment in intermittent strabismus or eye deviation.
These are not ordinary exercises. Only a trained professional can show you how to do them correctly, and doing them without guidance may worsen the condition. Sessions are usually held once a week for 30 minutes, and the number of sessions depends on the diagnosis.
Strabismus surgery
Some cases need surgery to loosen or tighten the eye muscles and realign the eyes. The intended benefits include improved depth perception, correction of an abnormal head posture and a wider field of peripheral vision.
Surgery combined with orthoptic therapy
Orthoptic therapy is sometimes recommended after strabismus surgery.
When to see an eye doctor
The earlier, the better. Once strabismus is noticed, an assessment lets your doctor work out which treatment suits you.
Insurance
Whether your insurer covers consultation and treatment depends on your policy. Many policies approve a limited number of therapy sessions. Contact your insurer for details.
Strabismus care at Spanish Eye Clinic
Spanish Eye Clinic in Dubai treats strabismus in children and adults. Our surgeons and doctors assess a wide range of eye alignment disorders using current techniques and equipment. For advice on the treatment options for crossed eyes or poor eyesight, contact our staff or book an appointment.