Adult Eye Alignment Information and Treatment
Misalignment of the eyes—either horizontally (crossing or wandering) or vertically (floating)—may have been present since childhood or acquired more recently. While treatment during childhood may have improved alignment issues, it can sometimes recur in adulthood. Acquired issues may indicate an underlying neurological disorder and may need additional testing.
Some forms (especially when acquired) can cause double vision. Alignment issues from childhood may be associated with decreased vision in one eye or a need for glasses. It can also cause eyestrain, the closing of one eye, and decreased depth perception. Recent studies have indicated that misaligned eyes can hinder social interaction, self-confidence, and even employment opportunities.
Adult eye alignment can be treated! The alignment specialists at Northwest Eye, Dr. Parvataneni and Dr. Freeman, are two of only a few doctors in the Midwest skilled in treating adult eye alignment issues. Together, they have over 30 years of adult eye alignment experience. Contact us to schedule an appointment.
Types of Adult Eye Alignment Issues
Strabismus
Strabismus is a lack of coordination between the eyes and results in the appearance of “crossed eyes” or turned out eyes. It prevents the eyes from focusing images correctly and can cause double vision, vision in only one eye, and diminished depth perception.
Strabismus may be caused by:
- Head or eye injury
- Stroke
- Diabetes
- Eye disease
- Other health issues
Amblyopia
Amblyopia causes reduced vision in one eye (but not the other). It’s also known as "lazy eye" or "drifting eyes". Amblyopia occurs when one eye doesn’t properly transmit visual signals to the brain. The brain ignores these signals and the eye becomes weak and suffers a loss of vision.
Amblyopia may be caused by:
Adult Eye Alignment Treatment
Treatment depends on the severity of the misalignment and your unique needs. Treatment may include eyeglasses (“prism glasses”) or patches that temporarily eliminate double vision and allow the problem to self-correct.
Amblyopia treatments involving blocking covering the stronger eye to strengthen the weaker eye. Although less effective in adults, these treatment methods may have some effect in improving vision.
If these are ineffective, lazy eye surgery can tighten or loosen eye muscles to achieve alignment. Help is available for adults with eye alignment issues! Contact us to meet with our eye alignment specialists. They’ll determine the best treatment to correct your eye alignment and restore your confidence.