Strabismus is a visual defect in which the eyes are misaligned and point in different directions. One eye may look straight ahead, while the other eye turns inward, outward, upward, or downward. The eye turn may be constant, or it may come and go. Which eye is straight (and which is misaligned) may switch or alternate.

Strabismus is a common condition among children. About 4% of all children in the United States have strabismus. It can also occur later in life. Strabismus occurs equally in males and females. However, some research suggests that the prevalence of strabismus could be as high as 25% in previous family history or future off spring many people with strabismus have no close relatives with the problem.

After a complete eye examination, an ophthalmologist or optometrist can recommend appropriate treatment for strabismus. Patching a child’s strong eye helps to strengthen the weaker eye. In some cases, eyeglasses can be prescribed for your child to straighten the eyes. Other treatments may involve surgery to correct the unbalanced eye muscles or to remove a cataract. Covering or patching the strong eye to improve amblyopia is often necessary.

Treatment for strabismus works to straighten the eyes and restore binocular (two-eyed) vision.