It is important to diagnose a squint (and amblyopia) as early as possible. Routine checks to detect eye problems in babies and children are usually done at the new-born examination and at the 6-8 week review. There is also a routine pre-school or school-entry vision check.

Some newborn babies have a mild squint that soon goes. However, any squint that is present after the age of three months is usually permanent unless treated. So, even if your child has had routine eye checks, tell your doctor if you suspect that a squint has developed.

A baby or child with a suspected squint is usually referred to an orthoptist. An orthoptist is a health professional who is specially trained to assess and manage children with squint and amblyopia. If necessary, an orthoptist will refer a child to an ophthalmologist (eye surgeon) for further assessment and treatment.

What are the treatments for squint?

Treatment typically involves the following:

• Treating amblyopia (visual loss) if this is present.
• Wearing glasses to correct any refractive error, if this is present
• Surgery is often needed to correct the appearance of the squint itself, and may help to restore binocular vision in some cases.

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