Treatment Options For Squint In Children

• July 25, 2024

Squint, which is also referred to as strabismus, is a medical condition in which both eyes don't align properly. To make you understand, one eye works properly and moves normally, while the other one remains steady with no movement at all. 

This abruption in alignment can be an occasional problem, but not preventing it one time can compromise the eyesight of the child. Here we have all the necessary details that you need to know about squint, its prevention, and its treatment.

Causes of squint in children 

There is no single reason that can be held responsible for causing squinting in kids. There are multiple factors that lead to damaged eyes. Here, we are listing them all.

Genetic factor 

Squints can occur due to genetic factors. If the mother, father, or anyone else in the family has this situation, then there's a good chance for it to occur in the kids. 

Muscle imbalance 

If the eye muscle is weak or overactive, then it might cause strain or imbalance in the eye muscle. In such situations, the children might face the squint problem.

Refractive errors 

Kids with untreated refractive problems, such as farsightedness (hyperopia), are prone to squint. The pupils may need to strain harder to stay focused, resulting in misalignment.

Neurological problem 

Squinting can also be caused by neurological diseases affecting the nerves that regulate the eye muscles. Cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and hydrocephalus have all been linked to increased squinting rates.

Treatment options for squint in children 

According to the severity of the condition, you can opt for either non-surgical or surgical treatment. Let's see what options are available to navigate. 

Non-surgical treatment 

Non-surgical treatments are temporary but aid eyesight and improve vision. Here are a few negotiable options. 

Glasses

If the Squint has occurred due to refractive measures then you can treat it with glasses. You must visit the ophthalmologist and get the vision correction glass to reduce further impact. 

Patching 

Patching is used to cover the strong eyes which leads the weaker eyes to work more. This improves the circulation of blood, strengthens eye muscles, and enhances the alignment of the eyes. 

Vision correction therapy 

Vision therapy is an organized program of visual activities aimed at improving eye coordination and concentrating skills. It may include workouts, computer programs, or the usage of specialized equipment. Vision therapy is customized to the kid's unique requirements and is generally overseen by an optometrist.

Surgical treatment 

If you are looking for a long-term and quick treatment option, then surgical treatment is a better option. Although it is costlier and requires aftercare as well as proper medication, it is good for the long run. 

Eye muscle surgery 

When the non-surgical method fails or doesn't work out well for your kid, go for this surgery. Performed under general anesthesia, the doctor adjusts the position or length of the eye muscle surgically. It improves the condition a great deal.

Adjustable suture surgery 

This method enables a specialist to tweak the eye muscle changes following the original surgery. It improves precision in getting the appropriate eye alignment. It is the most effective method and improves the eye condition for even severe cases of Squint eyes. 

Post-surgical care

Post-surgery care is as critical as the surgery itself. One mistake and your eyes can catch infection, which might lead to loss of vision. Your ophthalmologist might prescribe glasses, drops, and vision therapy sessions to help heal the eyes quickly. It is important that you follow them all closely so that your kids can achieve healthy eyes. 

Preventive measures for squint 

Since all the cases of Squint can't be prevented completely. Certain measures can reduce the impact of the condition and aid in early detection. Some of the preventive measures for Squint are mentioned below:

Regular eye checkup

As per the recommendation made by “The American Association of Ophthalmology,” you should get your kids' eyes checked at an interval of every 3 months. After your child turns 2 years old, you can opt for an eye check-up once every 6 months.

Monitoring high-risk children 

Kids with a family history of squints need to be kept in close eye. Since squints can be caused by genetic factors, these kids must be taken to eye check ups regularly. In cases of refractive error, they should receive the required treatment as early as possible.

Parental awareness and education 

Parents have to become aware of the symptoms of the squint. These symptoms include eye misalignment, frequent blinking, squinting, or head tilting. If you, as parents, are aware of the condition, then early treatment of the condition will become possible. 

Conclusion 

Squints can be caused by multiple factors. You must analyze the condition and make sure to get it treated. If you closely follow the condition and get the treatment on time, then your kid will be able to live a healthy life. 

For best consultation and treatment you can visit God Service Eye Clinic.