What is CI?
CI is a condition where the eyes are unable to converge (‘pull in’) sufficiently to keep an image single, when an object comes near to the face and one eye therefore drifts outwards. This often makes reading or close up tasks difficult when using the eyes together, despite good sight in each eye.
What causes CI?
CI is due to an eye muscle weakness. This can make it difficult for the eyes to work together properly even though they are healthy.
Symptoms
Individuals may complain of general eye strain and may notice jumbling or blurring of print, double vision or even headaches. Symptoms may be worse when tired or unwell or if reading for long periods. Often individuals close one eye when reading to relieve symptoms.
How common is it?
This condition affects about four in every 100 people.
Who will we see at the hospital?
At the hospital you may see several specialists;
- Orthoptist will assess the squint and check the vision in each eye.
- Optician (optometrist) will test the eyes to see if glasses are needed.
- Ophthalmologist will look into the eyes to check they are healthy and will carry out any surgery on the eye.
Are there any treatments?
There are three types of treatment available:
- Eye exercises
- Prisms
- Eye operation
Eye exercises
This is the most common type of treatment. Any glasses normally worn for reading should be used whilst doing exercises. Your orthoptist will show you how to do the exercises. It is important for them to be done regularly for short periods for example four times every day, for five minutes at a time. Exercises will be more difficult towards the end of the day when your eyes are tired. Symptoms may be worse initially when starting exercises.
It is important to relax your eyes after exercising, by looking at distant objects or closing your eyes. The eye department will review you to monitor your progress. The treatment is only successful if the exercises are carried out regularly at home as shown by your orthoptist. Attending the appointments without doing the exercises will not improve your symptoms. To be effective exercises need to be completed.
Prisms
A prism is a lens that can be used to make double vision better. Prisms take the ‘strain’ off the eyes to relieve symptoms and can be used temporarily or permanently.
Temporary prisms:
These are made of clear plastic and are placed onto glasses. They are particularly useful to provide immediate relief in the short-term.
Sometimes prisms are used with eye exercises. The prism strength will gradually be reduced until exercises can be done without them.
Permanent prisms:
These are built into normal glasses. The feasibility and cost of this can be discussed with an optician.
Eye Operation
An operation is very rarely needed because the treatments above usually work well. In specific cases, when the eye drifts out by a large amount, we may advise an operation. The aim of the operation is to reduce the amount that the eyes drift to aid control and relieve symptoms. Occasionally eye exercises or prisms may be used after the operation.
Your orthoptist or ophthalmologist will advise as to which, if any, treatment is recommended. If you have any further questions please ask an orthoptist or ophthalmologist involved in your care.
For further information
Contact details
Appointments Office:
To change or cancel an appointment, call: 0191 282 4444 (option 3).
Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm (excluding Bank Holidays)
Children’s Eye Department:
To speak to an orthoptist about your treatment 0191 282 4434
Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm (excluding Bank Holidays)
The Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)
PALS can offer on-the-spot advice and information about the NHS. You can contact them on freephone 0800 032 02 02 or e-mail northoftynepals@nhct.nhs.uk
Useful websites
If you would like further information about health conditions and treatment options, you may wish to have a look at the NHS Choices website at www.nhs.uk
