Mild strabismus in adults and children: signs you shouldn’t ignore
Mild strabismus can go unnoticed at first glance, but even a slight misalignment of the eyes can interfere with binocular vision, affect visual development during childhood, or cause visual discomfort in adulthood. In this guide, we explain how to detect it early and what treatment options are available.
What exactly is mild strabismus?
Mild strabismus refers to a subtle eye misalignment that prevents both eyes from aligning properly. This deviation can be constant or intermittent and is not always noticeable to the person affected or those around them, especially in the early stages.
Although the term “mild” suggests lower severity, its impact should not be underestimated. Misalignment can lead to double vision, vision loss in one eye (amblyopia or “lazy eye”), or problems with spatial perception.
Types of mild strabismus
Mild esotropia
In this type, also known as endotropia, one eye slightly turns inward. It may appear intermittently and become more noticeable when the person is tired or focusing on nearby objects.
Mild hypertropia / hypotropia
These are vertical deviations, where one eye points slightly upward (hypertropia) or downward (hypotropia). Although less common, they can also cause visual difficulties.
Causes of mild strabismus in children and adults
Common causes of mild strabismus in children
During childhood, the visual system is still developing, so certain conditions can lead to strabismus. Some of the most common include:
- Imbalances in the eye muscles
- Uncorrected refractive errors (mainly farsightedness)
- Family history or neurological disorders
Common causes of cild strabismus in adults
In adults, it may arise due to neurological disorders, trauma, muscle problems, or even prolonged visual fatigue. In some cases, it appears suddenly, requiring immediate evaluation.
Symptoms of mild strabismus
Symptoms of mild strabismus in children
Children with mild strabismus may frequently squint one eye, turn their head to focus, or have trouble judging distances. In many cases, if left untreated, it can lead to a lazy eye (amblyopia).
Symptoms of mild strabismus in adults
In adults, it can cause eye strain, double vision, headaches, or a sensation that the eyes are not working together properly. They may also notice a slight imbalance in eye movement.
Treatment of mild strabismus
Diagnosis should be performed by an ophthalmologist using specialized tests that assess eye alignment, visual acuity, and coordination between both eyes. The evaluation includes the degree of deviation, eye muscle mobility, and the quality of binocular vision.
Early detection is key to avoiding long-term consequences, especially in childhood.
Treatment of mild strabismus
Treatment varies depending on the cause, the degree of deviation, and the patient’s age. In many cases, surgery is not necessary, and non-invasive solutions are preferred
Optical correction
Wearing glasses with the correct prescription can resolve the issue when it is caused by a refractive error.
Vision therapy
Personalized exercises that help improve coordination between both eyes and train binocular vision.
Prisms incorporated into glasses
Prisms alter the direction of light entering the eye, helping to align vision without the need for surgical intervention.
Occlusion (patching)
Common in children, this involves covering the dominant eye to encourage use of the deviated eye, helping to prevent the development of a lazy eye.
Strabismus surgery
When other treatments are not effective, a surgical procedure may be considered to readjust the eye muscles.
Learn what strabismus surgery is like in adults or how pediatric strabismus surgery is performed.
Frequently asked questions about mild strabismus
Does mild strabismus correct itself over time?
In most cases, no. Although it may resolve spontaneously in some infants, it usually requires treatment.
Can mild strabismus appear suddenly in an adult?
Yes, and it can be linked to neurological issues, trauma, or visual stress. It’s important to see a specialist if a recent deviation is noticed.
Do vision exercises cure all cases of mild strabismus?
They are effective in many cases, especially when combined with other treatments. However, they are not a substitute for professional diagnosis and follow-up.
Is surgery risky for mild strabismus?
Like any procedure, it carries risks, but in experienced hands it is safe and typically yields good results when properly indicated.
Can mild strabismus be prevented?
Not always, since some causes are genetic or neurological. However, early detection and correction of visual defects can help prevent complications.
