Strabismus is the medical term for an eye disorder more commonly called “cross-eyed.” People with strabismus cannot align both of their eyes simultaneously. One of the eyes may turn in, down, out, or up, compromising vision quality. Sometimes, strabismus only happens intermittently, during times of stress or illness. However, in other patients, it is a constant condition.
Up to 5% of children have some form of strabismus. Many of them experience double vision because their eyes are misaligned in relation to each other. In order to avoid the “ghosting” effect of double vision, your brain will completely disregard the image of one eye. If strabismus is never treated, it can eventually result in complete vision loss.
Strabismus may be congenital, or acquired later in life. Risk factors for congenital strabismus include down syndrome, low birth weight, cerebral palsy, prenatal drug exposure, and family history. Risk factors for acquired strabismus include:
Strabismus can be treated in a variety of ways, but it typically involves eye exercises, a prescription for contact lenses or glasses, and/or topical agents. Some patients wear an eyepatch to help correct the problem. If strabismus is severe enough, it may warrant surgical repair in order to properly align the eyes.
If you have further questions about strabismus, please contact The Khanna Institute or call (877) 254-2662 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Khanna. We serve patients throughout Beverly Hills, Westlake Village, and surrounding areas of Los Angeles, California.
Los Angeles Lasik Surgeon Rajesh Khanna MD is a recognized pioneer in Presbyopic Implants for correction of aging eyes. He has popularized Cornea Cross Linking and Intacs forKeratoconus. He is an Expert Cataract, Pterygium Eye Surgeon, A Cornea Specialist he performs Laser Corneal Transplants, DMEK, DSEK and DALK. Rajesh Khanna MD is a well known medical writer. He has published the bestseller "The miracle of Pi in Eye".He is also a columnist for the newspaper Acorn. Dr.Khanna also hosts "Medical Magic". In his spare time he hikes with his family and German Shepard or does yoga. He also plays field hockey and loves swimming.