Squint eye (strabismus) and lazy eye (amblyopia) are two different types of eye diseases that most of the times are mixed together, though their causes, symptoms, and treatments vary. To know the exact difference between these two types of eye conditions, follow is a comparative analysis in detail.
Defination
Squint Eye (Strabismus):
It is the condition in which the eyes do not align and instead point in different directions. One eye may turn in, out, up, or down while the other eye focuses on an object.
Lazy Eye (Amblyopia):
A condition characterized by a reduction in one eye’s vision due to the preference of the other eye. It occurs through the suppression of signals into the weaker eye, with the eventual poor development in visual senses.
Cause
Squint Eye (Strabismus):
Muscle imbalance in the eye movement. Neurological or genetic disorders. Trauma or injury to the eye or the surrounding muscles. Uncorrected refractive errors, such as farsightedness.
Lazy Eye (Amblyopia):
Insufficient visualization in one eye in young age. Strabismus (squint eye), which may lead to developing amblyopia. Differing refractive errors in that one eye is more Myopic or hyperopic. Cataract or any obstruction that blocks or reduces light into the less powerful eye.
Symptoms
Squint Eye (Strabismus):
Crossed eyes (obvious turning of one eye). Diplopia or double vision in adults or older children. Shallow depth perception. Eye discomfort or pain.
Lazy Eye (Amblyopia):
Blurred or poorly developed vision in one eye. Trouble with the use of fine vision when reading or writing. Squinting or head tilting to see things better. In severe cases, no apparent signs, as the eye may appear normal.a
Diagnosis
Squint Eye (Strabismus):
- Diagnosed through eye alignment tests such as the Hirschberg test or cover-uncover test.
Lazy Eye (Amblyopia):
- Tested using observation of visual acuity through measuring both eyes. The power of the weaker eye even with corrective lenses will very low.
Treatment
Squint Eye (Strabismus):
Eyeglasses or contact lenses for refractive errors. Eye coordination vision therapy. Muscle surgery to align eyes.
Lazy Eye (Amblyopia):
Patching the stronger eye or putting atropine drops into it to block vision to force the weaker eye to work. Vision therapy with exercises to strengthen the weak eye. Digital therapy through video games, which target amblyopia.
Conclusion
Whereas squint eye is an actual physical misalignment of the eyes, lazy eye is referred to as decreased vision from ignoring signals to one eye in the brain. Both should be treated as early as possible. Consult an optometrist or ophthalmologist if you or your child exhibits any symptoms. For both treatment you can go with eyex vision therapy.
