Accommodative Esotropia

Causes

The main cause of this condition is hyperopia (farsightedness). Children with hyperopia often over-focus (accommodate) to see clearly, which can cause their eyes to turn inward. This excessive focusing activates the eye muscles to pull inward, resulting in esotropia.

Symptoms

• Misaligned eyes, where one or both eyes turn inward
  
• Crossing of the eyes when looking at close objects
  
• Squinting or closing one eye in sunlight
  
• Complaints of blurry or double vision
  
• Head tilting when focusing on objects
  
• Trouble with depth perception

Diagnosis

Dr Kini will conduct a thorough eye examination that includes:

• A visual acuity test to determine clearness of vision at different distances
  
• A refraction test to determine the need for corrective lenses
  
• Tests for eye alignment and focusing ability
  
• An eye health exam to exclude other conditions

Treatment Options

The primary treatment is corrective glasses to address hyperopia. Often, proper glasses can correct the eye alignment completely. If glasses are insufficient:

• Bifocals or progressive lenses might be necessary
  
• Eye exercises could be recommended to enhance eye coordination
  
• Patching or using eye drops to strengthen a weaker eye or improve focusing
  
• In certain cases, surgery might be considered if other treatments don’t correct the alignment

Prognosis

With early and appropriate treatment, most children can achieve good eye alignment and vision improvement. Dr. Kini emphasises the importance of regular follow-ups to adapt treatment plans as needed and ensure optimal vision development for your child.