Strabismus, a condition commonly known as crossed eyes, can affect both children and adults. While it is often diagnosed and treated in childhood, some individuals may continue to experience strabismus into adulthood. This eye misalignment condition can result in various vision problems if left untreated. In this article, Dr David Stager sheds light on how strabismus can impact the physical movements of adults and explores the treatment options available for managing this condition.
Common Types of Strabismus in Adults
Strabismus in adults can be categorized into two main types: esotropia and exotropia. Esotropia, also known as “crossed eyes,” occurs when the muscles responsible for eye movement do not function correctly together. In contrast, exotropia, often referred to as “wall-eyes,” manifests as one eye turning outward while the other remains fixated straight ahead or downward.
The Impact of Strabismus on Physical Movements
Adults with strabismus may have to compensate for their eye misalignment by turning their heads to see clearly. This continuous head movement can lead to neck pain, headaches, and even back pain, as the body twists while attempting to focus on objects directly ahead. Additionally, strabismus can compromise depth perception, the ability to judge the distance between objects and oneself. This can be particularly problematic in sports activities, where accurate depth perception is crucial for anticipating and reacting to movements.
Recognizing Problems with Physical Movement Related to Eyesight
Individuals experiencing issues with physical movements due to strabismus may struggle to see objects clearly, especially when they are nearby. Difficulty in maintaining focus on a target that is moving away or toward the observer may also indicate problems with physical movements related to eyesight. Moreover, challenges in tracking moving objects with both eyes (strabismus) can affect activities such as reading and writing, as these tasks involve tracking letters across lines or on computer screens.
Effective Treatments for Adult Strabismus
For individuals requiring surgical treatment for adult strabismus, understanding the procedures and their potential outcomes is essential. Different types of surgeries are available, chosen based on the specific case of each patient.
Refractive Therapy: This approach utilizes lasers or prisms to improve vision by altering the shape of the eye, enabling both eyes to focus accurately on distant objects. Refractive therapy is typically performed as an outpatient procedure with local anesthesia, and the recovery time varies depending on the extent of eye correction needed.
Scleral Tightening: Scleral tightening surgery involves tightening the sclera (the white outer layer of the eye) around both eyes to enhance their coordinated functioning without the need for glasses or contact lenses.
YAG Laser Trabeculoplasty: This procedure involves creating small burns inside fluid-filled sacs behind each iris, reducing swelling and enhancing binocular single vision.
Seeking Professional Guidance for Adult Strabismus
Individuals experiencing strabismus and its impact on physical movements should seek professional evaluation and treatment from experienced eye care specialists like Dr David Stager. An eye examination will help determine the underlying cause of strabismus and the most appropriate treatment options. Early intervention and appropriate management can lead to improved vision and overall eye health for adults living with strabismus.
In conclusion, strabismus is a condition that can affect both children and adults, leading to vision problems and challenges with physical movements. Recognizing the symptoms and seeking professional evaluation and treatment are crucial for managing strabismus effectively. With the help of experienced eye care specialists, adults with strabismus can explore suitable treatment options to improve their vision and overall quality of life.
