Strabismus: eye alignment and visual development

In strabismus the eyes do not point in the same direction. Amblyopia, often called lazy eye, is impaired visual development between the brain and eye during childhood. Strabismus can cause it, but they are not the same condition. Good vision in one eye does not rule out a problem in the other.

Tell an eye clinician about constant misalignment or concerns about your child’s vision; do not wait until school age. Assessment checks each eye’s vision, the need for glasses and how the eyes work together. Finding developmental problems early allows care to begin sooner.

Options may include glasses, specialist-guided exercises in suitable cases or eye muscle surgery. For associated amblyopia, a clinician may prescribe patching or drops; do not decide yourself which eye to patch or for how long.

Surgery aims to improve alignment; glasses or amblyopia treatment may still be needed. Results and the possibility of another procedure vary. Clarify treatment goals and follow-up with the care team.

Seek urgent assessment for sudden double vision or double vision with eye pain. Double vision with a severe headache, a markedly enlarged pupil or a head injury requires emergency care; in Türkiye you can call 112. Do not wait for a routine appointment.