Erie Ophthalmologist & Adult Strabismus Specialist
Adult Strabismus Treatment at Kids Eyes Erie
Strabismus — a condition in which the eyes are unable to properly align with each other — is not only a childhood concern. Many adults live with strabismus, whether it began in childhood and was never fully resolved, developed gradually over time, or appeared suddenly as a result of injury, illness, or neurological change.
For adults, misaligned eyes can affect far more than vision: research confirms that strabismus can impact self-confidence, social interaction, and even employment opportunities. The good news is that adult strabismus is treatable, and eyes can be straightened at any age.
While Kids Eyes Erie is primarily a pediatric eye care practice, Dr. Wesley Cox has extensive experience evaluating and treating adult patients with strabismus and double vision. We understand the effect that a misaligned eye can have on your quality of life, and we are committed to helping you find relief and regain confidence.
Our team takes time to understand each patient's unique situation and develop a personalized treatment plan. If you're ready to take the next step, request an appointment today. We look forward to seeing you.
Appointments
Adult Strabismus Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options
Diagnosing & Treating Adult Eye Misalignment
What causes adult strabismus?
Adult strabismus causes fall into several categories. Some adults have had strabismus since childhood — either it was never treated, treatment was only partially successful, or the condition has returned after years of stable alignment. In other cases, strabismus develops in adulthood due to:
- Neurological conditions such as stroke, brain injury, or multiple sclerosis
- Thyroid eye disease (Graves' disease)
- Diabetes or other systemic conditions affecting the nerves and muscles around the eye
- Eye injury or trauma
- Nerve palsy affecting the muscles that control eye movement
Because adult strabismus can sometimes be a sign of an underlying health condition, a thorough evaluation is an important first step in determining the right treatment approach.
What are the symptoms of adult strabismus?
Symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity of the misalignment. Common signs include:
- Double vision (diplopia)
- Head tilting or turning to compensate for the misalignment
- Eye strain or discomfort
- Headaches
- Difficulty with depth perception
- Avoidance of eye contact due to self-consciousness about the appearance of the eyes
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, we encourage you to schedule an evaluation with an adult strabismus doctor as soon as possible. Many of these symptoms are treatable, and early intervention leads to better outcomes.
How is adult strabismus treated?
At Kids Eyes Erie, we offer the following adult strabismus treatment options:
- Prism lenses: Specially prescribed lenses that bend light to compensate for the misalignment, reducing or eliminating double vision and eye strain. Our optical team can help you select frames to go with your prescription.
- Vision therapy: Targeted exercises designed to improve eye coordination and reduce the functional impact of the misalignment.
- Referral to a trusted specialist: When additional intervention is needed beyond what we can provide in our office, we will refer you to a trusted specialist in our network to ensure you receive the most appropriate care.
Our team will work with you to determine which approach — or combination of approaches — best fits your individual needs and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
I feel self-conscious about my misaligned eyes. Is treatment really worth it as an adult?
Absolutely. Recent studies confirm that misaligned eyes can hinder social interaction, self-confidence, and employment opportunities. Many adults who have lived with strabismus for years are surprised to learn how much can be done to improve their eye alignment and quality of life. Age is not a barrier to treatment — eyes can be straightened at any age, and even significant improvements in alignment can make a meaningful difference in how you feel day to day.
Can adult strabismus get worse over time?
In some cases, yes. Adult strabismus caused by an underlying condition such as thyroid eye disease or a neurological issue may fluctuate or progress if the underlying condition is not managed. Strabismus that developed in childhood and has been stable for years can sometimes worsen gradually. Regular evaluation with an adult strabismus ophthalmologist helps ensure that any changes are identified and addressed before they significantly affect your vision or quality of life.
Does Kids Eyes Erie accept insurance for adult strabismus treatment?
Yes — we accept most major insurance plans. Because strabismus treatment is reconstructive rather than cosmetic, it is often covered, but coverage can vary by provider and plan. We recommend reviewing our accepted insurances and contacting your provider before your visit to confirm your specific benefits.
How can I find an adult strabismus specialist near me in Erie, PA?
Kids Eyes Erie is located at 128 West 12th Street, Suite 301 in Erie, PA, and we serve patients from across Western Pennsylvania, Western New York, and Northeast Ohio. Scheduling is easy — request an appointment online at any time or call us at (814) 454-6307. Our team is ready to help you take the first step toward better vision and greater confidence.