Dealing with a squint, also known as strabismus, can be challenging for both children and adults. It affects not just your vision but also your confidence and quality of life. At Dr Soma’s Ophthalmology practice, we understand the emotional and physical impacts of living with a squint.
Suppose you’re looking for an ophthalmologist near me. In that case, we offer compassionate care and effective treatment options to help you and your loved one achieve better vision and regain confidence.
What is a Squint?
A squint occurs when the eyes are not aligned properly and point in different directions. One eye may turn inwards, outwards, upwards, or downwards, while the other eye looks straight ahead. This misalignment can happen constantly or only when you’re tired or focusing on close work. Squints are common in young children but can occur in adults as well. As a Midrand ophthalmologist, we help you deal with your squint.
What Causes a Squint?
Understanding the underlying causes of a squint can help in choosing the most effective treatment. Here are some common causes:
- Genetics: A family history of squints can increase the likelihood of developing one.
- Refractive Errors: Issues like farsightedness can cause the eyes to misalign.
- Muscle Imbalance: The muscles controlling eye movement may not work together properly.
- Neurological Issues: Conditions affecting the brain and nerves can lead to a squint.
- Injury or illness: Trauma or diseases affecting the eyes or brain can result in a squint.
What are the Symptoms of a Squint?
Recognising the symptoms of a squint early can lead to more effective treatment. Common symptoms include:
- Misaligned Eyes: One eye looking in a different direction than the other.Double Vision: Seeing two images of a single object.
- Eye Strain: Discomfort and tiredness in the eyes, especially after reading or close work.
- Difficulty with Depth Perception: Challenges in judging distances accurately.
- Head Tilting: Frequently tilting the head to see better.
How is Squint Treated?
Treating a squint involves a range of options tailored to the individual’s needs. As an ophthalmologist near you, we aim to improve eye alignment and coordination, enhance vision, and boost overall quality of life.
Non-Surgical Treatments
For many patients, squint treatment without surgery can effectively treat a squint, especially if detected early. Non-surgical Treatments Include:
- Glasses or Contact Lenses: Corrective lenses can address refractive vision errors, reducing the need for the eyes to compensate or misalign.
- Eye Patches: Covering the stronger eye with a patch can encourage the weaker eye to work harder, strengthening its muscles and improving alignment.
- Vision Therapy: A series of exercises designed to improve eye coordination and focusing abilities. This therapy can be particularly effective for children.
- Prism Lenses: Special lenses that can reduce double vision by helping the eyes work together more effectively.
Surgical Treatments
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to achieve the best results. Surgical Treatments Include:
- Strabismus Surgery: This involves adjusting the muscles around the eyes to improve alignment. The procedure is typically quick and performed on an outpatient basis, allowing for a relatively swift recovery.
- Injections: Certain treatments injected into the area can temporarily weaken overactive muscles, helping realign the eyes. This is often used for adults and in cases where surgery may not be suitable.
What to Expect During Treatment?
Understanding the treatment process can ease any concerns you may have. Here is what you can typically expect:
Initial Consultation
A thorough examination by an eye specialist to determine the type and cause of the squint, followed by a discussion of the best treatment options for you.
Personalised Treatment Plan
Based on the initial consultation, a tailored treatment plan will be created to address your specific needs.
Follow-Up Appointments
Regular check-ups to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
Support and Guidance
Dr Soma will provide continuous support, answer any questions, and offer advice to help you through the treatment process.
Get Started with Your Squint Eye Treatment in Midrand
Living with a squint can be challenging, but it mustn’t be a lifelong struggle. You can improve your vision and regain your confidence with the proper treatment. Our practice is dedicated to providing compassionate, effective care tailored to your unique needs. Whether through non-surgical methods or surgical intervention, we’re here to help you see the world more clearly.
Don’t let a squint hold you back—take the first step towards better vision and a brighter future with Dr Soma – your premier midrand ophthalmologist.
| Procedure | Use | |
|---|---|---|
| Laser Surgery (Photocoagulation) | Laser burns create scars that seal the retina to the back of the eye. | Effective for retinal tears and holes before detachment occurs. |
| Cryopexy (Freezing Treatment) | A freezing probe is used to seal the retina in place. | Often combined with other surgical methods for effective results. |
| Scleral Buckling | A silicone band is placed around the eyes to push the wall against the detached retina. | Effective for larger detachments. |
| Vitrectomy | Removing the vitreous gel (gel-like fluid that fills your eye) and replacing it with gas or silicone oil to retract the retina. | Often used for severe detachments. |
What Can You Expect During Recovery?
Post-surgery care is crucial for successful recovery. Here’s what you can expect after retinal detachment surgery:
- Follow-Up Appointments: Regular visits to monitor healing and check for complications.
- Activity Restrictions: Avoid heavy lifting, bending, and other strenuous activities.
- Medication: Use prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
- Vision Improvement: Vision may take several weeks to improve and stabilise.
Comprehensive Care and Support Every Step of the Way
A retinal detachment is a serious condition, but with prompt treatment, you can protect your vision and prevent permanent damage. Dr Soma is a dedicated Midrand ophthalmologist who is here to guide you through the treatment.
If you experience any symptoms of a detached or torn retina, don’t wait—seek immediate attention from an ophthalmologist near me. Your vision is precious, and we’re here to help you maintain it for a brighter, clearer future.