Strabismus: Signs and Symptoms

When someone discovers strabismus it occurs in one of three ways:
(1) a person starts to have double vision
(2) no apparent double vision or eye turn but the patient experiences asthenopia (eye strain)
(3) poor vision which may or may not be associated with strabismus

Young children rarely complain of double vision. Rather parents can look for telltale behaviors that may be due to strabismus. Some of the signs that parents might see is their child turning their head, tilting or tipping it, or winking one eye excessively. Older children are more likely to complain of double vision.

Strabismus is treatable. Surgery can often help the eyes align but often vision therapy is needed to help both eyes work together in an efficient fashion.