Squint, medically known as strabismus, refers to a misalignment of the eyes where they do not point in the same direction. This ocular condition can manifest in various forms, including esotropia (inward turning), exotropia (outward turning), hypertropia (upward turning), or hypotropia (downward turning). Strabismus often develops during childhood, although it can also occur in adults due to factors such as trauma, neurological issues, or systemic diseases.
The primary cause of squint is an imbalance in the muscles controlling eye movement, preventing both eyes from working together harmoniously. This misalignment can lead to double vision, reduced depth perception, and, in some cases, amblyopia (lazy eye), where the brain favors one eye over the other. Early detection and intervention are crucial, especially in children, to prevent long-term visual impairment and to promote proper visual development.
