Time flies! Can you believe we are already in the third month of the year? As we embrace the journey ahead, we remain grateful for the gift of life and good health.
This week, we’re diving into an important eye condition—Squint, also known as crossed eyes.
What is Squint?
According to the dictionary, squinting can mean:
- Looking at something with one or both eyes partly closed to get a clearer view or to react to bright light.
- A permanent deviation in the direction of the gaze of one eye.
For today’s discussion, we’ll focus on the second definition.
Squint (or strabismus) is a condition in which both eyes do not align in the same direction simultaneously. One eye may turn inward, outward, upward, or downward while the other remains focused. This misalignment can be constant or intermittent and may affect one or both eyes.
What Causes Squint?
Several factors can contribute to this condition, including:
- Injury to the nerves controlling eye movement.
- Dysfunction of the muscles responsible for eye coordination.
- Underlying medical conditions affecting vision.
How Common is Squint?
Squint is a common eye disorder, with over 1.5 million cases diagnosed annually in Nigeria (Google statistics). It is often self-diagnosed and requires minimal testing for confirmation by an eye specialist.
Treatment Options for Squint
The good news is that squints can usually be corrected with early treatment. Depending on the severity and cause, an eye doctor may recommend:
- Special eyewear: Corrective lenses can help realign the eyes and improve focus.
- Eye patches: Covering the stronger eye forces the weaker eye to work harder, improving muscle strength.
- Ocular training: Eye exercises designed to enhance coordination and focus.
- Surgery: Reserved for severe cases where non-surgical treatments have not been effective.
It’s important to note that treatment takes time—usually several months. Consistency and patience are key to achieving the desired results.
Final Thoughts
Squint 101 has been a quick but essential guide to understanding this common eye condition. Early detection and intervention can significantly improve the management and correction of crossed eyes.
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of squint, don’t wait! Seek professional advice and begin treatment early.
Wishing you a fantastic week ahead!
Cheers,
Dr. Sharon
Vision Plus Specialist Eye Clinic
📞 08027405955
