Squint or Strabismus in Children
What is Pediatric Strabismus?
Squint, medically referred to as strabismus, is an eye condition in which the eyes, getting strumbled, are misaligned and do not point in the exact direction, impacting one eye to look straight forward while the other stays either curved inward, outward, upward, or downward, as a common pediatric vision problem, occurring intermittently or consistently in one or both eyes of the child affected of the condition. However, such pediatric vision problems can be managed/ treated for children by early detection under the supervision of an eye specialist, preventing long-term complications such as amblyopia, aka lazy eye, or loss of depth perception.
Causes of Strabismus
The following are the factors, contributing to the eruption of Strabismus, which may vary in nature and effects from person to person but the muscles, controlling eye movement, or the nerves and brain centers may also be responsible for the coordination of eye alignment:-
Congenital Factors
- Some children are born with strabismus due to genetic predisposition or developmental issues during pregnancy.
Refractive Errors
- Uncorrected refractive errors, such as farsightedness (Hyperopia), can strain the eye muscles, leading to inward turning (accommodative esotropia).
Neurological Conditions
- Conditions like cerebral palsy or hydrocephalus can interfere with eye muscle control, causing strabismus.
Trauma or Injury
- Head or eye injuries can disrupt the normal functioning of the muscles or nerves responsible for eye alignment.
Eye Diseases
- Cataracts, retinal problems, or tumors in the eye can lead to misalignment.
Types of Strabismus
Strabismus can be classified based on the direction of the misaligned eye:-
- Esotropia – The eye turns inward (toward the nose).
- Exotropia – The eye turns outward (away from the nose).
- Hypertropia – The eye turns upward.
- Hypotropia – The eye turns downward.
Symptoms
Parents and caregivers should be attentive to signs of strabismus, which may include:-
- Visible Misalignment – The eyes appear crossed or look in different directions.
- Poor Depth Perception – Difficulty judging distances or coordinating movements.
- Double Vision – Older children may complain of seeing two images.
- Eye Strain or Fatigue – Children may rub their eyes frequently or tilt their heads to compensate for the misalignment.
Diagnosis
A pediatric ophthalmologist diagnoses strabismus through a detailed eye examination. Tests include:-
- Visual Acuity Testing – To measure the child’s ability to see clearly
- Corneal Light Reflex Test – To assess eye alignment
- Cover Test – To determine how the eyes move and work together.
- Refraction Test – To check for refractive errors
Treatment Options
Treatment for strabismus depends on its type and severity. Common approaches include:-
Corrective Glasses
- Glasses can correct refractive errors and reduce the strain causing the misalignment.
Patching Therapy
- For amblyopia associated with strabismus, patching the stronger eye forces the weaker eye to work harder, improving vision.
Orthoptic Exercises
- Eye exercises may strengthen the muscles and improve coordination.
Surgical Intervention
- In cases where non-surgical treatments are insufficient, surgery may be performed to adjust the eye muscles and correct alignment.
Botulinum Toxin Injections
- In certain cases, Botox injections are used to temporarily weaken overactive eye muscles.
Importance of Early Intervention
Early detection and treatment of strabismus are critical to prevent vision problems like amblyopia and ensure proper visual development. Regular eye exams during infancy and early childhood are vital for identifying and managing strabismus effectively.
Conclusion
Strabismus is a treatable condition, but its impact on a child’s vision and overall development can be significant if left unaddressed. Awareness, timely diagnosis, and a tailored treatment approach can restore proper eye alignment and ensure healthy visual outcomes for affected children. Parents and caregivers should seek an immediate professional evaluation if strabismus is suspected.
