Strabismus is a condition where the eyes are misaligned, with each eye pointing in a different direction. This prevents the two axes of vision from meeting when looking at an object simultaneously.
Strabismus is a common visual defect in children, but it can also affect adults. It occurs due to a malfunction in one of the muscles that control eye movement via signals from the brain.
What is strabismus in adults
Strabismus in adults is defined as a misalignment of the eyes, where each eye looks in a different direction instead of the same direction. This causes double vision and may be caused by problems with the eye muscles or nerves.
Types of strabismus
There are several types of strabismus, classified according to various factors. Some of the most important include:
- Esotropia (inward turning of the eyes towards the nose).
- Exotropia (outward turning of the eyes towards the ears).
- Surface esotropia (upward turning of the eyes).
- Downward esotropia (downward turning of the eyes).
What are the causes of strabismus in adults
The cause is usually unknown, but it may result from conditions such as nerve damage or weakness in the muscles responsible for eye movement. Other causes include:
- Congenital defects that occur before birth.
- Genetic factors may cause strabismus in adults.
- Hyperopia (farsightedness) or myopia (nearsightedness).
- Amblyopia (lazy eye).
- Head injuries.
- Hydrocephalus (hydrocephalus).
- Viral infections such as measles.
- Cerebral palsy or stroke.
Symptoms of Strabismus in Adults
The main sign of strabismus is misalignment of one or both eyes. Other symptoms may appear due to eye strain, including:
- Double vision.
- Difficulty perceiving depth.
- Eye strain.
- Tilting the head at an angle to see clearly.
- Closing one eye when looking at something.
- Headaches.
Treating Strabismus in Adults Without Surgery
The choice of treatment method depends on the severity of the strabismus and its underlying causes in adults. The doctor may prescribe eyeglasses to correct refractive errors.
Vision therapy may also be prescribed, involving specific exercises to strengthen the eye muscles and improve eye movement control. Botox injections can be used to temporarily relax certain eye muscles.
Surgical treatment for strabismus in adults is an option if other treatments are ineffective. This involves shortening or lengthening the muscles that control eye movement.
Complications of Strabismus
Neglecting strabismus treatment can lead to complications, including:
- Low self-confidence due to the effect of strabismus on facial appearance.
- Double vision and blurred vision.
- Lazy eye (amblyopia).
- Difficulty making eye contact with others.
How is Strabismus Diagnosed
To diagnose strabismus in adults, the doctor performs a comprehensive eye examination and conducts the following tests to assess the severity of the condition:
- Light reflection test.
- Cover and sudden removal test.
- Eye Examination.
- Fundament Examination.
- Frequently Asked Questions
Can strabismus appear suddenly
Yes, it can appear suddenly in adults as a result of certain diseases such as diabetes or head injuries, and it can also result from surgery on the muscles surrounding the eye.
What is strabismus surgery in adults
Strabismus surgery in adults is a surgical procedure performed under local anesthesia, where the doctor modifies the eye muscles to make them move in a coordinated manner.
How long does strabismus correction surgery take in adults
Strabismus surgery usually takes about an hour, but the duration may vary depending on the muscles modified during the procedure.
Is strabismus a serious condition
Strabismus is not a serious condition in itself if treated early, but neglecting it can lead to complications such as amblyopia (lazy eye) or double vision.
What causes strabismus in one eye
There are various causes of strabismus (crossed eyes) in one eye, which may result from poor vision in one eye, problems with the eye muscles or nerves, or genetic factors.
Article Summary
Strabismus in adults is a condition where each eye looks in a different direction than the other, instead of looking in the same direction; that is, the eyes are not aligned. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the strabismus.
It may result from nerve damage or weakness in the muscles responsible for eye movement. Other causes include genetic factors, head injuries, diabetes, and strokes.