Ophthalmological consultation – treatment of strabismus (adults)

What is an ophthalmology consultation – strabismus treatment (adults)

An ophthalmology consultation for strabismus treatment in adults is a visit with an eye doctor during which eye alignment, binocular vision, and the cause of the problem are assessed. The goal is to identify the type of strabismus and choose the best treatment approach. Depending on the case, treatment may include glasses correction (also with prisms), exercises, management of coexisting conditions, and in selected cases qualification for surgery.

Who it is for

Consider this consultation if:

• you have visible misalignment of the eyes (constant or intermittent),
• you experience double vision, blurred vision, or difficulty judging distances,
• you squint, tilt your head, or have headaches and rapid eye fatigue,
• strabismus appeared after an injury, infection, during neurological conditions, or after surgery,
• you want to check the results of previous treatment or you are considering strabismus surgery,
• you work at a computer and feel visual discomfort that increases during the day.

How to prepare

• Bring medical records from previous ophthalmology and orthoptics visits (if applicable) and any test results.
• Bring the glasses and contact lenses you use (also older pairs if your prescription has changed).
• Prepare a list of chronic conditions and medications you take.
• Think about when your symptoms occur (e.g., after screen work, while driving, in the evening).
• If dilating eye drops may be used, do not plan to drive after the appointment.

How the consultation works

During the visit, the doctor may:

• take a history of your symptoms (including double vision, headaches, eye fatigue) and medical background,
• check visual acuity and examine eye alignment and eye movements,
• assess binocular vision and fusion range (how the eyes work together),
• evaluate whether prism glasses or another form of correction is needed,
• when indicated, examine the front of the eye and the retina (sometimes after drops),
• propose a treatment plan, including possible surgical qualification, and explain the next steps.

The scope of tests is tailored individually and depends on the cause of strabismus and the symptoms you report.

Additional information

• The consultation length depends on the scope of the exam and whether drops are needed.
• After dilating drops, you may temporarily have worse near vision and increased light sensitivity.
• In adults, strabismus is often associated with double vision—this is why a precise symptom description is important.
• If double vision starts suddenly or you notice neurological symptoms (e.g., speech problems, numbness), seek urgent medical care.