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Squint, medically known as strabismus, is a condition where the eyes do not align properly and point in different directions. It is particularly common in young children but can occur at any age. One eye may turn inward, outward, upward, or downward while the other eye looks ahead. This misalignment can be constant or intermittent and can affect depth perception and overall vision. If left untreated, it could lead to further problems such as persistent blurred or double vision, or a lazy eye (amblyopia), potentially resulting in permanent vision loss.
Common symptoms
Misaligned eyes (one eye turning in a different direction).
Double vision (diplopia), especially in adults or with sudden onset.
Difficulty focusing on objects.
Frequent eye strain or headaches.
Squinting or tilting the head to see clearly.
Reduced depth perception.
Inconsistent vision clarity.
Blurred vision.
Loss of vision in one eye (amblyopia or "lazy eye").
Abnormal or erratic eye movements.
Red eye reflection in one eye (can be a sign of retinoblastoma).
Possible causes
Problems with the six muscles that control eye movement not working together.
Uncorrected refractive errors such as short-sightedness, long-sightedness, or astigmatism.
Genetic factors or a family history of squint.
Poor vision in one eye.
Developmental delays.
Prematurity and low birth weight.
Idiopathic (no known cause) in many cases.
Cerebral palsy.
Down syndrome.
Hydrocephalus.
Brain tumors.
Retinoblastoma (a rare type of childhood eye cancer).
Retinopathy of prematurity.
Congenital cataract.
Certain infections, such as measles or congenital rubella.
Other problems with the brain or nerves.
Stroke (a leading cause in adults).
Head injuries or trauma.
Cranial nerve palsies affecting oculomotor, trochlear, or abducens nerves.
Thyroid eye disease (Graves' disease).
Medical treatment
Corrective lenses, such as eyeglasses or contact lenses, especially if the squint is caused by refractive errors. Prism lenses can be used to bend light and relieve double vision.
Eye exercises (orthoptics or vision therapy) to help improve brain-eye coordination and muscle control, particularly for certain types of strabismus like convergence insufficiency.
Patching (occlusion therapy) of the stronger eye to treat amblyopia (lazy eye) by encouraging the weaker eye to develop better vision.
Medications, including eye drops, ointments, or injections of botulinum toxin type A (Botox®) to temporarily weaken an overactive eye muscle and help align the eyes.
Surgery (strabismus surgery) to adjust the length or position of the eye muscles, thereby realigning the eyes. This is often recommended if other treatments are not fully effective or for specific types of strabismus.
Treating underlying medical conditions that may be causing the squint, such as cataracts or neurological disorders.
Ayurvedic perspective
In Ayurveda, squint, medically known as strabismus, is understood within the context of Netraroga (eye diseases) and is often analogized to Viparita Netra or Skhalita Netra. It is primarily viewed as a manifestation of vitiated doshas, particularly Vata, disrupting normal Agni (digestive/metabolic fire), leading to Ama (toxic buildup) that blocks visual Srotas (micro-channels) and Dhatus (tissue layers) of the eye. The root cause is frequently linked to the vitiation of the Vata dosha, which governs the movements and alignment of the eyes. An imbalance in Vata disrupts the smooth functioning of the ocular muscles, leading to improper alignment and erratic movements. Pitta dosha imbalance, often due to eye strain or heat exposure, can cause inflammation in the optic nerves and eye muscles. Kapha dosha imbalance can contribute to sluggishness, mucous congestion, and reduced flexibility of the eye muscles. This condition is considered a Vikriti, a disturbance of the normal constitution.
Ayurvedic dietary guidelines
Follow a Vata-pacifying diet, including warm, moist, and easily digestible foods such as soups, cooked vegetables, ghee, and whole grains. Avoid cold, dry, and raw foods that aggravate Vata.
Incorporate ghee (clarified butter) into the diet, as it is known to be very helpful for strengthening eyes and nourishing eye tissues.
Consume foods rich in Vitamin A and antioxidants, such as leafy greens, carrots, sweet potatoes, and Amla.
Add Triphala powder to the diet daily to help improve the strength of eye muscles and nerves.
Include foods like almonds, fennel, rock sugar, and honey.
Avoid processed foods.
Stay hydrated with warm herbal teas and infused water.
Ensure adequate rest and sleep, as it is essential for healing ocular muscles and nerves, pacifying Vata, and promoting overall eye health.
Practice stress management techniques to help pacify Vata.
Avoid excessive screen time and follow the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds).
Wear sunglasses when exposed to bright light.
Splash cool water on the eyes daily.
Incorporate Yoga practices such as Bhramari pranayama (to improve sense organs and reduce eye pressure) and Sarvangasana (to increase blood flow to the eyes).
