How does strabismus present in babies and children?
There are two main types of strabismus. Congenital or childhood strabismus is seen in children or young adults and is present either at birth or in the first few years of life. It tends to be primarily horizontal and measures the same in every direction of gaze. Children tend not to get double vision with strabismus as their brains are more adaptable. However, it can be associated with a lazy eye or the need for glasses which are usually treated before the eye misalignment can be corrected. No one really knows why some children develop strabismus, but we know that prematurity and a family history of strabismus make it more likely.
My advice would be the same to all parents, if you have any concerns related to your child’s vision, do raise them with your GP in the first instance. (Prof. Saurabh Jain)
You can also find further information in our page, What is Strabismus? which you can find in the menu.
In Phase One of this website, we will not be looking in depth at what strabismus is in medical terms, but we do want to examine the psycho-social impact of strabismus. Dr Silvia Riva has shared some excellent observations and guidance on strabismus in children that I am sure parents will find helpful. Here is an extract:
- Fear of Stigma: Many patients with strabismus worry about being misjudged or seen as different, which can lead to stress and feelings of marginalisation. Misunderstandings and stereotypes about visible conditions may make children and adults feel isolated or less capable, impacting their self-worth and aspirations for the future.
- Psychological Impact on Parents and Caregivers: Parents of children with strabismus often experience their own psychological stress. Feelings of guilt, concerns about their child’s future, and frustration over societal misunderstandings can weigh heavily on them. These emotions can strain family dynamics and impact how parents support their child, underscoring the need for family-focused support and education.
You can read more on Dr Riva’s page which is in the menu.
Over time, we will be expanding on these topics, so please subscribe to the blog.