Silmätaipuman

Silmätaipuman, also known as strabismus or crossed eyes, is a condition where the eyes do not align properly. Instead of both eyes looking at the same point, one eye may turn inward, outward, upward, or downward. This misalignment can be constant or intermittent, and it can affect one or both eyes.

The exact cause of silmätaipuman is not always known, but it is often related to problems with the muscles that control eye movement, or with the nerves that send signals to those muscles. It can be present from birth (congenital) or develop later in life (acquired). Factors such as genetics, certain medical conditions, and injuries can contribute to its development.

Symptoms can vary depending on the severity and type of misalignment. People with silmätaipuman may experience double vision, blurred vision, or difficulty with depth perception. In some cases, the brain may adapt by suppressing the image from the weaker eye, which can lead to amblyopia, or lazy eye, if left untreated. Children with silmätaipuman may not complain of vision problems, but parents might notice that their child's eyes do not appear to be looking in the same direction.

Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive eye examination by an ophthalmologist or optometrist. Treatment options depend on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. These can include eyeglasses to correct refractive errors, eye exercises (orthoptics), or surgery to realign the eye muscles. Early diagnosis and treatment are important, especially in children, to prevent long-term vision problems.