squint

Last edited 03/2023 and last reviewed 05/2023

A squint is a condition in which the visual axes of each eye are not directed simultaneously at the same object.

Children who are born with strabismus or develop it early in life (typically before age 7 years) do not experience visual symptoms from strabismus (1).

In young children, strabismus usually occurs spontaneously

• individuals with a family history of strabismus are at increased risk of developing strabismus

Strabismus acquired later in life may be associated with

• head injury,
• stroke,
• brain tumor,
• thyroid disease (Graves disease),
• diabetes, myasthenia gravis,
• ocular muscle damage during eye surgery

Treatment depends on the severity of strabismus, the patient’s age, symptoms, and other coexisting medical conditions

Reference:

• Kraus C, Kuwera E. What Is Strabismus? JAMA. Published online February 17, 2023. doi:10.1001/jama.2023.0052