Best Doctor List Near You for Strabismus (squint) in Hagerstown

Strabismus, commonly known as a squint, is a condition where the eyes do not properly align with each other when looking at an object. This misalignment can occur intermittently or constantly, and one or both eyes may turn inward (esotropia), outward (exotropia), upward (hypertropia), or downward (hypotropia). Strabismus is caused by an imbalance in the eye muscles responsible for positioning the eyes, a defect in the brain's control center for eye movements, or an issue with the nerves transmitting information to the eye muscles. It can be congenital, developing in infancy or early childhood, or acquired due to factors such as refractive errors, neurological disorders, head injuries, or diseases like diabetes that affect the muscles or nerves. Complications from untreated strabismus can lead to amblyopia, also known as "lazy eye," where the brain starts ignoring the visual input from the misaligned eye to avoid double vision, resulting in reduced vision in that eye. Strabismus can also cause difficulties with depth perception, impaired binocular vision, and social or psychological issues due to the cosmetic appearance of the misalignment. Treatment options vary based on the type and severity of strabismus and can include eyeglasses, vision therapy, prisms, or surgery to adjust the tension of the eye muscles. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term vision problems and improve eye alignment. Regular follow-ups with an eye specialist are essential for monitoring progress and adjusting treatment as needed.