Strabismus
(Eye Turn or Crossed Eyes)

Normally, our two eyes work together to provide a single, clear view of the world. This is known as binocular vision.

However, in strabismus, the eyes are misaligned, and one or both eyes do not work together properly.
Strabismus, also known as an eye turn or crossed eyes, occurs when the eyes are not aligned and point in different directions. This results in the brain receiving two different images, leading to double vision or impaired depth perception.

Strabismus can be caused by:

Weak or imbalanced eye muscles
Issues in how the brain controls the eye muscles
Genetic factors or developmental delays
Refractive errors (such as short-sightedness, long-sightedness or astigmatism)
Vision problems in one eye

Common Types of Strabismus

Esotropia (Eye turns inward)
Often noticed in young children. Can be constant or intermittent.
May cause double vision or lead to a “lazy eye” if untreated.
Exotropia (Eye turns outward)
Often happens when a child is tired or daydreaming.
Can cause eye strain, headaches, or trouble focusing.
Hypertropia / Hypotropia (Vertical eye turn)
One eye may drift up (hypertropia) or down (hypotropia).
Can cause head tilting or double vision.
Infantile Strabismus
Appears within the first 6 months of life.
Usually a large, noticeable eye turn inward.
Intermittent Strabismus
The eye turn comes and goes.
Children may rub their eyes, squint, or complain of tired eyes.
Accommodative Esotropia
Caused by uncorrected long-sightedness (hyperopia).
Often improves with glasses.

What Happens to the Brain with Strabismus?

When strabismus occurs, the brain receives two conflicting images—one from each eye. To prevent double vision, the brain suppresses the image from the misaligned eye, favouring the image from the better-aligned eye. Over time, this suppression can lead to amblyopia (lazy eye) in the affected eye, as the brain chooses not to use that eye for vision.

Signs and Symptoms of Strabismus Include

Why Should Parents Be Concerned?

If left untreated, strabismus can lead to permanent vision problems, including amblyopia (lazy eye) and impaired depth perception. Although surgery may straighten the eye structurally, it may not always address the underlying functional issue—how the brain processes visual input from the eyes.

Children with strabismus may struggle with depth perception and 3D vision, which can affect their ability to engage in activities like sports, driving, or understanding spatial relationships.

What You Can Do?

If you suspect your child may have an eye turn (strabismus), schedule a comprehensive eye test with our optometrists at Eyecare Kids, who have a special interest in children’s vision. Early detection is crucial to prevent long-term vision problems. We can help by monitoring for signs and ensuring regular eye exams are part of your child’s health routine.

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Your Child’s Sight is Precious

Good vision is vital for your child’s development, both academically and in their everyday life. Don’t wait for the signs to show up – let our behavioural optometrists help you give your child the best chance at clear, efficient vision.

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Strabismus (Eye Turn or Crossed Eyes)