Strabismus, commonly known as cross or wandering eyes, is a condition that affects around 4% of the pediatric population. It occurs when the eyes do not align properly, and each eye sees a different image.

This can lead to problems with depth perception, amblyopia, and even blindness if left untreated. Early diagnosis and treatment of strabismus is crucial to prevent these complications and improve the child’s quality of life.

This article will cover what to expect when diagnosing strabismus in pediatric patients, including signs and symptoms, diagnostic tests, and treatment options.

Signs and Symptoms

The most common sign of strabismus in children is eye misalignment. This may be constant or intermittent and may occur in one or both eyes. As a result, the child may experience double vision, blurred vision, or have difficulty focusing.

They may also tilt their head or squint to compensate for the misalignment, and their eyes may appear to be looking in different directions. In some cases, the child may experience eye strain, headaches, and fatigue. If you notice any of these symptoms in your child, it is essential to schedule an eye exam as soon as possible.

Diagnostic Tests

Assessing a child for strabismus may involve several diagnostic tests.

A comprehensive eye exam is the first step, which may include visual acuity testing, examination of the eye muscles, and a dilated eye exam to evaluate the health of the retina and optic nerve. The eye doctor may also use eye drops to temporarily paralyze the muscles that control eye movement, allowing them to observe any deviations in the eyes’ alignment.

Imaging tests like CT scans and MRI may also be used to evaluate the structures of the eye and brain, as well as assess any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to the strabismus.

Treatment Options

Treatment options for strabismus depend on the severity and underlying cause of the condition. In some cases, vision therapy, which involves exercises and activities that help strengthen and coordinate eye muscles, may be prescribed.

In other cases, corrective lenses may be used to improve vision. Surgery may be necessary in severe cases where other treatments have failed. During surgery, the eye muscles are repositioned to improve eye alignment.

The goal of treatment is to improve eye alignment, prevent amblyopia, and improve vision and overall quality of life for the child.

Conclusion

Strabismus is a condition that can have a significant impact on a child’s visual and overall development. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent complications and improve outcomes.

If you suspect your child may have strabismus, schedule an eye exam with a qualified eye doctor as soon as possible. With the right diagnosis and treatment plan, your child can enjoy improved vision and quality of life.