Strabismus is considered one of the few eye diseases that can be self-recognized. A person with strabismus has pronounced deviations of the eyeball in one or both eyes from the central axis. It is difficult for the gaze to focus on the object being viewed, as the gaze is directed in different directions. According to statistics, this is most often a childhood disease, as it manifests at the age of two to three years, during the period of forming complex connections of eye direction.
Causes
The causes of strabismus can include previous eye diseases, heredity, the process of puberty, poor ecology, and excessive strain on the eyes.
Symptoms of Strabismus
Strabismus can be self-diagnosed by carefully observing a person's eyes. If both eyes look in the same direction and this does not change when the direction of vision changes, then the disease is likely absent. However, if noticeable deviations from the central axis are observed and are approximately the same for both eyes, this indicates concomitant strabismus. There is also paralytic strabismus, which manifests as a result of damaged muscles responsible for eye movements. In this case, changes, or the so-called deviation of vision, are observed only in one eye. Other types of strabismus are also possible: convergent, divergent, and vertical, depending on the direction of the deviating eye.
Diagnosis of Strabismus in Israel
Strabismus can be diagnosed both independently and during an appointment with an ophthalmologist. A specialist doctor will more accurately determine the presence, degree of development, type, and treatment method for strabismus. At the first signs of vision deviations, it is recommended to consult an ophthalmologist.
Treatment of Strabismus in Israel
As with any other disease, it is very important to detect it early. This greatly affects the course and consequences of the disease. Strabismus is always accompanied by additional diseases, such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. Treatment of strabismus lasts two to three years. During this time, the instructions of the ophthalmologist must be strictly followed, and regular monitoring is required. It all starts with correcting existing disorders and diseases. From the earliest possible age, wearing special glasses for constant use is required to minimize the symptomatic manifestation of strabismus. Additionally, a specialized exercise program for the unused muscle groups of the eye is also important. If amblyopia (insufficient load on the eye muscle connections) develops, glasses with a patched lens must be worn. This creates the necessary tension on the eye muscles. This method requires long-term wearing of glasses and regular ophthalmologist check-ups. Surgical treatment is prescribed for paralytic strabismus, as well as in cases where there is no desired effect from treating concomitant strabismus. Children usually undergo this operation at the age of three to six, under general anesthesia. Vision adaptation lasts about eleven days. Afterward, a set of exercises to train the eye muscles must be performed.
Prevention
Prevention should begin immediately after birth. This includes adhering to visual load norms for children, regular visits to an ophthalmologist, preventing the occurrence of eye diseases, and a diet that includes foods rich in vitamins A, B, and E.