ACCOMMODATIVE STRABISMUS Meaning and
Definition
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Accommodative strabismus, also known as accommodative esotropia, is a neurological condition characterized by an inward deviation of the eye(s) due to an underlying problem with focusing the eyes to see clearly. This condition typically occurs in individuals who are farsighted (hyperopic) and experience difficulty with their visual accommodation, which is the ability of the eyes to adjust their focusing power to maintain clear vision at varying distances.
Accommodative strabismus often develops in early childhood, usually appearing between the ages of one and three years. The condition is closely associated with the effort made by the eyes to overcome hyperopia by consistently focusing on near objects. While hyperopia itself does not cause strabismus, the excessive focusing effort required to compensate for it can lead to misalignment of the eyes.
Symptoms of accommodative strabismus may include eye fatigue, headaches, blurred or double vision, eye strain, and poor depth perception. Treatment for this condition typically involves the use of prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses to correct the underlying hyperopia. These optical aids help to alleviate the focusing effort and, in turn, the eye misalignment.
In some cases, if eyeglasses or contact lenses alone do not effectively manage the accommodative strabismus, additional treatment options such as vision therapy, eye exercises, or surgery may be necessary. Vision therapy includes a series of visual exercises designed to strengthen the eye muscles, improve coordination, and enhance overall visual function.
Early detection and intervention for accommodative strabismus is crucial to prevent permanent vision problems and maintain optimal visual development in affected individuals. Routine comprehensive eye examinations are essential for diagnosing and managing this condition effectively.
Etymology of ACCOMMODATIVE STRABISMUS
The word "accommodative strabismus" is a medical term that combines two terms: "accommodative" and "strabismus".
1. "Accommodative" refers to the process of accommodation, which is the ability of the eye to adjust focus for seeing objects at different distances. It is derived from the Latin word "accommodare", meaning "to fit or adapt". In this context, accommodative refers to the eye's ability to change its focus by adjusting the shape of the lens.
2. "Strabismus" is a condition in which the eyes are misaligned and do not aim at the same point simultaneously. It is derived from the Greek word "strabismos", meaning "to squint or to look obliquely".
