Crossed Eyes (Strabismus)

Crossed eyes, medically known as strabismus, is a condition where the eyes do not align properly, causing one or both eyes to turn inwards, outwards, upwards, or downwards. This misalignment can be constant or intermittent and may affect depth perception and overall vision. Strabismus can develop in childhood or adulthood and may lead to amblyopia (lazy eye) if not treated early.

• Causes: Strabismus can be caused by muscle imbalances in the eyes, where one or more of the six muscles controlling eye movement are too strong or too weak. It can also result from neurological conditions, trauma, or uncorrected refractive errors like nearsightedness or farsightedness. In some cases, strabismus is inherited or associated with conditions like cerebral palsy or Down syndrome.
• Symptoms: The primary symptom of strabismus is the misalignment of the eyes. In children, this may cause double vision or poor depth perception, but some children may adapt by ignoring input from the misaligned eye, leading to amblyopia. In adults, strabismus may cause headaches, eye strain, or difficulty with tasks that require precise visual coordination, like reading or driving.
• Treatment: Treatment depends on the severity and underlying cause of strabismus. Options include corrective eyeglasses or contact lenses, vision therapy to strengthen eye muscles, and, in more severe cases, surgery to adjust the muscles controlling eye movement. Early intervention in children is critical to prevent amblyopia and to improve visual outcomes.

Cross-linking eye surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used to strengthen the cornea by creating new collagen bonds. It is primarily performed to treat keratoconus, a condition where the cornea thins and bulges outward, affecting vision. The procedure involves applying riboflavin (vitamin B2) drops to the eye, followed by controlled ultraviolet (UV) light exposure. This treatment helps stabilize the cornea, preventing further deterioration and reducing the need for a corneal transplant.

Cross-linking is a minimally invasive procedure used to strengthen the cornea by creating new links between collagen fibers. It involves applying riboflavin (vitamin B2) eye drops followed by controlled ultraviolet (UV) light exposure. This process increases corneal rigidity, slowing or halting the progression of conditions like keratoconus. The treatment helps maintain vision stability and may reduce the need for corneal transplants in advanced cases.

Cross-linking surgery, used to treat keratoconus and corneal ectasia, carries potential risks, including eye irritation, infection, temporary vision changes, and corneal haze. Some patients may experience prolonged healing, scarring, or light sensitivity. In rare cases, vision may worsen. Proper post-operative care and following the ophthalmologist’s instructions can minimize complications. Consult a specialist to understand individual risks before undergoing the procedure.