Strabismus (Squint)

Misalignment of the eyes causing visual axis deviation; common in pediatric eye care.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board

Last updated: June 11, 2026

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Göz Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Strabismus (Squint)?

Strabismus is misalignment of the visual axes of the eyes. It is classified by direction (esotropia, exotropia, hypertropia, hypotropia) and frequency (constant, intermittent).

Pediatric strabismus may cause permanent amblyopia and lose of stereopsis in untreated cases. In adults, recent-onset strabismus may indicate cranial nerve palsy, thyroid eye disease or cerebrovascular disease.

Diagnosis is made by cover-uncover and prism cover tests, ductions and versions, and orthoptic evaluation. Treatment includes refractive correction, occlusion, prisms or surgery.

Symptoms

Visible eye misalignment

Squinting one eye

Diplopia (double vision)

Frequent eye rubbing

Abnormal head posture

Reading difficulty

Photophobia

Headache and eye fatigue

Risk Factors

Family history of strabismus

Premature birth

Cerebral palsy and neurodevelopmental disorder

High refractive errors

Thyroid eye disease

Trauma and orbital fracture

Cerebrovascular disease (in adults)

Cataract and retinal disease

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

Newly noticed eye misalignment
Adult-onset diplopia
Vision loss in one eye in a child
Persistent abnormal head posture
Sudden onset strabismus with neurologic symptoms
Postoperative recurrence

Treatment Methods

Refractive correction (glasses)

Occlusion therapy for amblyopia

Prism glasses

Strabismus surgery

Botulinum toxin injection

Orthoptic vision therapy

Treatment of underlying disease

Postoperative follow-up and re-evaluation

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Göz Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Göz Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.