A squint clinic, also known as a "strabismus clinic" or "pediatric ophthalmology clinic," is a specialized medical facility that focuses on the evaluation, diagnosis, and management of strabismus, commonly known as "squint" or "crossed eyes." Strabismus is a condition where the eyes are misaligned and do not point in the same direction when looking at an object.
Services Offered at a Squint Clinic:
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Strabismus Evaluation: Pediatric ophthalmologists or squint specialists perform a comprehensive evaluation to assess the degree and type of eye misalignment. They use various tests, such as the cover test, corneal light reflex test, and the prism test, to determine the extent and characteristics of the squint.
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Diagnosis of Strabismus: After the evaluation, the squint clinic provides a definitive diagnosis of the type of strabismus, which can be classified as esotropia (inward deviation), exotropia (outward deviation), hypertropia (upward deviation), or hypotropia (downward deviation).
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Amblyopia Management: Amblyopia, also known as "lazy eye," is a common condition associated with strabismus. The squint clinic will identify and manage amblyopia, which involves the use of eye patches, atropine drops, or vision therapy to encourage the development of better vision in the affected eye.
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Treatment Options: The squint clinic will discuss and recommend appropriate treatment options for the specific type and severity of strabismus. Treatment may involve non-surgical approaches like corrective eyewear, prism glasses, and vision therapy. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to realign the eyes.
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Pediatric Contact Lens Fitting: If necessary, the clinic may provide contact lens fitting for children with strabismus or other eye conditions that may benefit from contact lens correction.
The goal of a squint clinic is to improve eye alignment and visual function, as well as to address any associated eye conditions that may affect a child's vision and overall eye health. Early detection and intervention are crucial in managing strabismus, as this can lead to better treatment outcomes and prevent the development of permanent vision problems.