What is strabismus?

Strabismus is defined as a condition in which the eyes do not align properly and may point in different directions. This misalignment can result in one eye focusing on an object while the other eye is turned inward, outward, upward, or downward. Strabismus can affect depth perception and how the brain interprets visual information, potentially leading to issues like double vision or amblyopia (lazy eye) if not addressed. Understanding strabismus is crucial for vision professionals, as it informs both diagnosis and treatment options, which may include exercises, glasses, or surgical interventions to improve eye alignment.

The other options describe different concepts related to eye health but do not accurately define strabismus. For instance, refractive errors pertain to issues with focusing light on the retina, optic nerve diseases concern neurological conditions affecting vision transmission, and surgical procedures relate to methods of correction rather than defining the condition itself. Thus, identifying strabismus accurately as a misalignment of the eyes is fundamental in the context of vision care.