Squint

Oscar del solar

Squint, also known as strabismus, is a condition where the eyes do not properly align with each other when looking at an object. This misalignment can lead to the eyes looking in different directions. Squint can affect individuals of any age but is most commonly seen in children. The condition can be either congenital (present at birth) or acquired later in life due to various causes.

Causes

The causes of squint can vary widely and include factors such as genetics, neurological disorders, eye diseases, and trauma. In many cases, the exact cause is unknown. Congenital squint often runs in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition. Acquired squint may result from conditions such as thyroid eye disease, cerebral palsy, or brain tumors.

Types

Squint is classified based on the direction of the eye misalignment:

• Esotropia: inward turning of the eye
• Exotropia: outward turning of the eye
• Hypertropia: upward turning of the eye
• Hypotropia: downward turning of the eye

Additionally, squint can be categorized as either paralytic or non-paralytic. Paralytic squint is caused by a weakness or paralysis of one or more of the extraocular muscles responsible for eye movement. Non-paralytic squint, on the other hand, involves a misalignment without muscle paralysis.

Symptoms

Symptoms of squint include:

• Visible misalignment of the eyes
• Double vision (diplopia)
• Blurred vision
• Eyestrain or headaches
• Difficulty with depth perception

Children with squint may also exhibit signs such as squinting or tilting the head to see better.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of squint involves a comprehensive eye examination by an ophthalmologist or an optometrist. This may include tests to assess visual acuity, eye alignment, and the functioning of the eye muscles. In some cases, further testing may be required to determine the underlying cause of the squint.

Treatment

Treatment for squint aims to improve eye alignment, enhance vision, and prevent amblyopia ("lazy eye"), where the brain starts to ignore input from one of the eyes. Treatment options include:

• Eyeglasses or contact lenses: to correct any refractive errors
• Patching: covering the stronger eye to improve the function of the weaker eye
• Eye exercises: to strengthen the eye muscles
• Surgery: to adjust the length or position of the eye muscles
• Botulinum toxin injections: to temporarily weaken the stronger eye muscle in some cases of paralytic squint

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with squint varies depending on the type, cause, and severity of the condition, as well as the age at which treatment begins. Early detection and treatment are crucial for preventing vision loss and achieving the best possible outcome.