How is strabismus recognized?

Signs include a visible eye turn, double vision, head tilting, or covering one eye. A full eye exam is needed to confirm alignment issues.

When should a child be evaluated for strabismus?

If a child shows persistent eye drift, poor eye contact, or consistently tilts the head to see, arrange an eye examination without delay to support normal visual development.

What can happen if strabismus is not assessed?

Untreated misalignment during early childhood can increase the risk of reduced vision in one eye (amblyopia) and affect depth perception. Adults may experience double vision or functional and social impacts.

Which specialists handle strabismus?

Ophthalmologists and pediatric ophthalmologists manage diagnosis and follow-up. Family physicians can refer; neurologists may be consulted if a neurological cause is suspected.

Strabismus — general overview

Strabismus (commonly called squint) occurs when the eyes are not aligned on the same point. It can affect both children and adults, influence visual development and daily activities, and may require specialist assessment to determine underlying causes and appropriate follow-up.

Signs and how it may be noticed

Strabismus is often seen as a misalignment of the eyes. Common signs include an eye that turns in, out, up or down; double vision; leaning or tilting the head to focus; closing or covering one eye; and visual fatigue when reading or doing close work. In infants and young children, persistent misalignment, lack of steady eye contact or one eye appearing to drift should prompt an eye check.

Causes and risk factors

Several factors can contribute to strabismus. These include congenital muscle or nerve differences, uncorrected refractive error (such as high hyperopia), family history of eye alignment problems, prematurity, eye injuries, and certain neurological or systemic conditions. Risk increases when visual development or binocular vision is disrupted in early childhood.

Assessment and which specialists to consult

Diagnosis is made through a comprehensive eye examination that evaluates vision, eye movements and alignment. Ophthalmologists, including pediatric ophthalmologists when children are involved, are typically the primary specialists. Family physicians can advise on referral; in some cases neurology or other specialties may be involved if a broader medical cause is suspected. Tests may include refraction, cover tests and, when indicated, imaging or specialist investigations.

Practical guidance and when to seek urgent care

Regular eye checks and early assessment for suspected misalignment support better visual outcomes, especially in children whose vision is still developing. Follow-up plans and monitoring are individualized by the specialist. Seek urgent medical attention if there is a sudden onset of marked eye deviation, new severe double vision, accompanying neurological symptoms or other rapid changes—these findings warrant prompt evaluation in emergency or acute care settings.

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