Common Vision Conditions Affecting Children |
||||
| |
| Strabismus, commonly known as crossed-eyes, is a vision condition that often affects children and first appears between birth and 21 months. The term strabismus is used to describe eyes that are not straight or properly aligned. For a variety of reasons, one or both eyes alternately turn in, out, up, or down when looking at objects in the distance, up close, or both. Strabismus can be hereditary and results from the inability of the eyes or eye muscles to coordinate together properly. Some adults may develop strabismus due to injury, trauma, or systemic conditions such as stroke, tumor, or vascular disease. It is a common misconception that a child will outgrow strabismus. In children, it is critical that this condition be diagnosed and treated as early as possible. If left untreated, the condition may worsen and the child may develop amblyopia, commonly known as lazy eye. Amblyopia can develop because, in an attempt to avoid double vision from misaligned eyes, the brain may ignore the image from one of the eyes. Over time, the ignored eye will have decreased visual function. It is important to note that certain children may appear to have strabismus when, in fact, they do not. An extra fold of skin that hides some of the white in the inner corner of the eyes may cause the eyes to look crossed. A broad, flat nose, which is common in young children, or eyes that are unusually close together may also produce such an effect. Occasionally, if the child’s eyes are set further apart, it may appear as if one eye is turning outward. All of these are examples of false strabismus. This false strabismus should disappear as the child’s face grows.Treatment in such cases is unnecessary. After a complete vision examination by an optometrist, a parent’s concern can be quickly dispelled if false strabismus is present. The major goal in treating strabismus is the development of normal vision in each eye, including fusion and depth perception. Accomplishing these goals often involves straightening the eyes and preventing amblyopia from developing. Treatment of strabisumus can include spectacle lenses, bifocals, prisms, vision therapy, and in some cases, surgery. There are many types of strabismus and no single treatment is best or all-inclusive. If detected and treated early, strabismus can often be successfully corrected without the need for surgery. Parents should be aware of signs of possible strabismus in infants and children including: - Appearance of misaligned or crossed-eyes.
|