A squint, otherwise known as strabismus, is a condition in which the eyes are not properly aligned. A squint may be present continuously or only intermittently. Some children are born with a squint while some may develop a squint later in life. A squint is manifest when one eye turns in, out, up or down while the other looks ahead.

Investigation and treatment is indicated in the following circumstances:

• Signs of a problem with a child's vision
• A child born with a constant squint
• An intermittent squint that comes and goes in a child older than three months
• A squint which arises in childhood or adulthood

Treatment is usually recommended to restore vision and align the eyes.

WHAT CAUSES A SQUINT?

A squint may develop as a result of a disorder of focus in the visual system, in which case glasses may be required in the treatment. There may not be an underlying “cause” that requires specific treatment. Attention is given to the development of vision and alignment of the eyes.

HOW IS A SQUINT TREATED?

Glasses are prescribed if long-sightedness is the cause of the squint. Eye patching of the sound eye may be required to improve the vision in the squinting eye. Eye muscle surgery may be required to align the eyes.