When your eyes don’t look in the same direction at the same time, that’s a squint, a condition where the eyes are misaligned, also known as strabismus. Also known as strabismus, it’s not just a cosmetic issue—it changes how your brain processes what you see, and if left alone, it can lead to permanent vision loss in one eye. This isn’t rare. About 4% of children have it, and many adults develop it after injuries, strokes, or even long-term eye strain. It’s not something you just grow out of. Ignoring it doesn’t make it disappear.
The strabismus, a medical term for eye misalignment that includes inward, outward, upward, or downward turning of the eye can show up in many ways. One eye might drift inward toward the nose (esotropia), outward (exotropia), or up and down. In kids, it often happens because the eye muscles aren’t coordinating right as the visual system develops. In adults, it’s more likely tied to nerve damage, diabetes, thyroid problems, or trauma. The brain starts ignoring input from the misaligned eye to avoid double vision—this is called amblyopia, or lazy eye. And once that happens, treating the squint alone won’t fix the vision loss. You have to catch it early.
Fixing a squint isn’t just about surgery. Glasses can help if it’s caused by farsightedness. Eye patches and vision therapy train the brain to use both eyes together. Even simple exercises, done daily, can make a difference. For some, Botox injections temporarily relax the overactive muscle. Surgery is an option when other methods don’t work, and it’s often very successful—even in adults. The key is not waiting. If you notice your child closing one eye in bright light, tilting their head, or complaining of double vision, get it checked. Same for adults who suddenly develop eye misalignment—it could be a sign of something more serious.
What you’ll find in the posts below are real, practical stories and science-backed advice on how squint affects daily life—from kids struggling in school to adults who can’t drive safely because of double vision. You’ll learn how eye exams catch it early, what treatments actually work, and how to avoid common mistakes parents and patients make. There’s no magic fix, but there are clear steps you can take to protect vision and regain control.
Strabismus is a common eye misalignment that can affect vision and confidence. Learn how glasses, patches, and surgery can correct it, what to expect from treatment, and why early intervention matters for lasting results.
