Strabismus, or squint, is misalignment of the eyes so they do not point in the same direction. It can be constant or intermittent and may affect one or both eyes.
Causes
Childhood strabismus often results from imbalance between eye muscles and focusing demands, uncorrected refractive error (especially hyperopia), or neurological and developmental factors. In adults, causes include decompensated childhood squints, nerve palsies, trauma, thyroid eye disease, and other orbital or neurological disorders.
- Early‑onset strabismus can lead to amblyopia if not treated
- Acute onset in adults frequently causes double vision
- Systemic diseases such as diabetes or hypertension can cause ocular nerve palsies
- Rarely, tumours or strokes present with new eye misalignment
Clinical Approach
Assessment includes measurement of deviation, refraction, and evaluation of eye health and neurological status. Management ranges from glasses and prisms to exercises, injections, or surgery.
- Early treatment in children promotes better visual development and alignment
- Sudden strabismus with other neurological symptoms needs urgent investigation
- Adults with persistent diplopia may benefit from prism correction or surgery
- Long‑term follow‑up detects changes and maintains binocular function where possible
