Karsastus

Karsastus, also known as strabismus or crossed eyes, is a condition where the eyes are not aligned properly. Instead of both eyes looking in the same direction at the same time, one eye may turn inward, outward, upward, or downward. This misalignment can be constant or intermittent. Karsastus can affect people of all ages, but it is most commonly diagnosed in young children.

The exact cause of karsastus is not always clear, but it can be related to problems with the muscles that control eye movement, the nerves that send signals to those muscles, or the part of the brain that processes visual information. Genetics can also play a role, as it often runs in families. Other contributing factors can include certain medical conditions such as cerebral palsy or Down syndrome, or vision problems like significant farsightedness or nearsightedness.

Symptoms of karsastus can vary. In children, parents may notice that one eye looks different, or the child may squint or tilt their head to see better. In some cases, the misalignment might be subtle and only appear occasionally. Adults may experience double vision, blurred vision, or eye strain. If left untreated, karsastus can lead to amblyopia, commonly known as a lazy eye, where the brain favors one eye and the vision in the other eye does not develop properly. Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive eye examination by an ophthalmologist or optometrist. Treatment options depend on the type and severity of karsastus and may include eyeglasses, eye exercises (orthoptics), or surgery to realign the eye muscles. Early detection and treatment are crucial for achieving the best possible visual outcome.