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Adult and Pediatric Strabismus

Strabismus is most commonly referred to as “being cross-eyed.” It is a condition in which a person cannot align both eyes simultaneously. Either one or both of the eyes may turn in, out, up or down. The eye may be constant, meaning that the eye turns all the time, or intermittent, turning only under certain conditions such as excessive stress or illness.

Both types of strabismus require treatment, so it is important that if you suspect your child may have strabismus you schedule an appointment with University Eye Specialists, P.C. as soon as possible.

It is important to remember that children do not outgrow strabismus. This condition can be caused by various factors, including:

  • Hereditary conditions
  • Inappropriate development of the “fusion center” of the brain
  • Injuries or trauma to muscles or nerves
  • Circulation problems associated with diabetes or high blood pressure

Symptoms of strabismus are often dependent on the age at which the condition develops. If the condition develops before the age of six, there is usually no double vision. However, the brain may suppress or turn off an eye, causing amblyopia, or “lazy eye.” If the strabismus develops after the age of six, the patient may develop double vision (diplopia). This can be quite uncomfortable, but can often be treated with prism correction in the glasses.