Squint is one of the most common eye problems seen in the eyes, especially in children when they are born. It is an eye condition in which the eyes are misaligned, meaning that the eyes point in different directions. While this misalignment is constant for a few patients, it may be occasional for others. The deviation of the eyes may be in any direction – inward, outward, upward, or downward. If you think that the condition is untreatable you are wrong, because in reality, there is actually a treatment for the same – it could be through spectacles, therapies, or a squint surgery in Andheri West. In fact, if the condition is not treated with time, it may result in a condition called Amblyopia, which eventually leads to permanent vision loss.

What causes squint?

Squint could be a problem by birth, which may be caused due to heredity, genetics, or weakness of the eye muscles or nerves. It may also be caused later in life due to an eye injury, or blurred or poor vision caused due to cataracts, glaucoma, refractive error, optic nerve disease, retinal disease, eye tumour, etc.

How can squint be identified?

Squint may occur in one or both the eyes. The symptoms of squint include –

  • Defective vision in one or both the eyes
  • Double vision or confusion
  • One or both eyes pointing to different directions
  • Eyes being sensitive to bright sunlight
  • Children turning their face or tilting their head in a specific direction to use their eyes together

How can squint be treated?

  • Squint that is caused due to refractive errors can be corrected by prescribing suitable spectacles.
  • Amblyopia can be treated with occlusion therapy.
  • The last retort is squint surgery in Andheri West. Based on the improvement in vision by spectacles or therapy, surgical treatment can be given, which can straighten the misaligned eyes. In the surgery, the muscles are detached from their original insertion, and shifted to a different spot. The amount of shift is based on the measurement that is done with special prisms. However, a surgery does not mean that everything is done. Even after a surgery, glasses will have to be continued to maintain vision clarity. Also, patching therapy may be needed for some time after the surgery.

Squint isn’t a sign of good luck as it may affect your child’s vision and appearance both. As the child grows older, it becomes difficult to treat squint and regain the lost vision. This is why it is advisable to treat the child as soon as possible, most preferable before 2 years of age. Loss of vision can be prevented in children if squint is treated as early as possible. So, if your child is suffering from squint, you should take immediate steps to consult a specialist. One such dependable name is Arohi Eye Hospital, where there is a specialized squint surgeon who can advise you on the best treatment, whether it is spectacles, therapy, or a squint surgery in Andheri West.