Strabismus

Alternative names:

crossed eyes; esotropia; exotropia; squint; walleye

Treatment:

Initially, strategies to strengthen the weakened muscles and thereby realign the eyes are attempted. This may include wearing a patch over the unaffected eye, wearing special eyeglasses, or performing eye muscle exercises. Surgery may be required to realign the eye muscles if strengthening techniques are unsuccessful.

Expectations (prognosis):

With an early diagnosis, the defect can usually be corrected. With delayed treatment, vision loss in one eye may be permanent.

Complications:

• loss of vision in one eye
• embarrassment over facial appearance with eye patch

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider or eye doctor if your child complains of double vision or difficulty with the vision, or if your child appears to be cross-eyed or the eyes do not fix on the same point.

Strabismus requires prompt medical evaluation.