Crossed-eyes (strabismus) occurs when one or both eyes turns in, out, up or down. Poor eye muscle control usually causes crossed-eyes. This misalignment often first appears before 21 months of age, but may develop until as late as 6 years of age. This is one reason why the American Optometric Association recommends a comprehensive optometric examination before six months and again at age three.

There is a common misconception that a child will outgrow crossed-eyes. This is not true. In fact, the condition may get worse without treatment.

Treatment for crossed-eyes may include single vision or bifocal eyeglasses, prisms, vision therapy, and in some cases, surgery.

If detected and treated early, crossed-eyes can often be corrected with excellent results.