Eye misalignment, also known as strabismus in the medical literature, is a condition that can be managed successfully when diagnosed early. However, if the treatment process is delayed, it may lead to permanent vision loss or amblyopia.
What Causes Eye Distortion in Children?
It usually occurs due to imbalance of the eye muscles, refractive errors, or a combination of neurological factors. Main causes: genetic and hereditary factors, high-grade hyperopia (the child overexerts the muscles to see clearly, the eyes turn inward), weakness of the eye muscles or nervous system problems.
Is it normal for babies to have misaligned eyes?
Occasional misalignment in the first 3-4 months is usually normal (false strabismus/pseudostrabismus). However, if it becomes persistent after the 6th month, a specialist should be consulted. In babies with wide nasal roots, the skin fold called epicanthus may cause the eye to appear as if it is slipping; This is completely misleading.
What are the symptoms of eye strain?
- Eyes not looking at the same point
- The child squints his eyes or tilts his head in a certain direction
- Frequent falling and hitting objects (loss of depth perception)
- Line skipping while reading
- Desire to watch television very closely
- Complaint of double vision or headache
How to Treat Eye Strain?
Treatment methods: Glasses treatment (glasses may be sufficient in case of deviations due to refractive error), Occlusion treatment (the weak eye is operated by closing the healthy eye), Orthoptic exercises and surgical intervention when necessary. The decision for surgery is made based on the width of the slip angle and the response to other treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does eye strain go away on its own?
No. We should not make the mistake of saying 'it will pass when you grow up'. If left untreated, permanent amblyopia and vision loss may occur.
At what age should eyelid surgery be performed?
It is generally recommended to be done in the preschool period (3-6 years old) from a psychological and physiological perspective. However, each case is evaluated individually.
Does misalignment surgery correct the eye permanently?
Surgery allows the eyes to be aligned, but in some cases, glasses or eyeliner may be required.
