The human eye is a very complicated organ, and with such complexity, problems can arise. Sometimes, for example, one of the eyes may tend to look in a different direction to the other, which is more commonly known as a squint. This condition is not unusual, and experts are not entirely sure of its cause, but the good news is that you can treat it in several different ways. What do you need to know about the options?
Developing Condition
Many children will develop a squint during their formative years, but the condition can also come on in adulthood. When it happens, one of the eyes may look upwards, downwards or to either side as the other eye remains in its usual position. This problem can sometimes give the patient double vision or in the worst scenario can lead to a deterioration in the quality of the vision from the affected eye. Also, some people may be very self-conscious about their appearance and will want to make changes as soon as they can.
Treatment
While the brain will get used to these conflicting signals and will gradually compensate, it is a good idea to treat the condition to try and rectify. The patient should talk with their optician first and foremost to explore the options, but if the condition is more constant than intermittent, they will usually recommend some form of treatment.
Eye Exercises
Sometimes, the condition is relatively mild and may be treatable through a course of eye exercises. However, corrective surgery is also an option and especially if the patient is suffering from double vision.
Corrective Surgery
Surgery to correct a squint is typically done on an outpatient basis. During the procedure, the surgeon will alter the position, or tighten some of the muscles which affect the position of the eye. Once they are happy with the adjustment, they will apply some stitches to keep the muscles in place. You may need further adjustments in order to fine-tune the procedure, based on subsequent examinations.
Following up
Generally speaking, you can expect to make a reasonably quick recovery from this type of surgery. However, there may be discomfort in the hours or first few days after the procedure. Complications are rare, although you may experience some double vision as the effects wear off.
Moving Forward
If you want to deal with a squint in one of your eyes as soon as possible, talk with an eye surgeon for further details.
