When a squint signals something more

Eye problems often go unnoticed until symptoms become apparent. Small signs like a toddler tilting her head or an adult struggling with oncoming headlights may be dismissed as trivial. Consultant ophthalmologist Dr Fazilawati Qamarruddin explains that two common yet frequently overlooked conditions in Malaysia are strabismus, or a squint, and cataracts.

A squint occurs when the eyes are not aligned, causing one eye to point in a different direction. This misalignment can affect vision, depth perception, learning, and confidence. Strabismus can affect people of any age and may be linked to refractive errors, nerve disorders, trauma, or tumours. In adults, sudden onset squints should be promptly assessed.

Untreated strabismus can lead to amblyopia, or lazy eye, where the weaker eye fails to develop properly due to insufficient stimulation. Early screening through vision checks by age three and before starting primary school is crucial. Parents should watch for frequent squinting, head tilting, or complaints of headaches. Cataracts, which develop when the eye's natural lens becomes cloudy, are more common in people over 60 but can also affect younger individuals with certain risk factors.

Modern cataract surgery is a simple procedure that can restore vision, with most patients returning to light activities within a week. Prevention and early detection are key, as eye conditions often progress gradually, and advanced symptoms may indicate significant damage. Adults should undergo regular eye examinations, especially those with diabetes, and follow recommended habits like following the 20-20-20 rule for screen time and using UV-protective sunglasses.