Adult onset esotropia is a condition characterized by the inward turning of one or both eyes, often resulting in double vision. Our eye doctors provide tailored solutions to restore visual comfort.
Adult onset esotropia is a condition in which one or both eyes begin to turn inward later in life, after years of normal binocular coordination. This eye turn, often noticeable by the sudden onset of double vision or a change in appearance, can be both frustrating and concerning. Our eye doctors understand how unsettling these changes can be and are here to provide clarity and personalized advice.
While many people first hear about esotropia in children, adult onset esotropia represents a distinct challenge due to age-related anatomical changes, increased screen time, and other factors related to overall health. In recent years, studies have reported that the lifetime risk of adult onset strabismus is around 4%, with esotropia accounting for roughly a quarter of those cases.
If you’ve recently noticed an inward turning of the eye or have developed double vision, it’s important to understand that adult onset esotropia is both diagnosable and treatable, with modern approaches providing excellent outcomes.
Esotropia refers specifically to the inward deviation of an eye toward the nose. In adults who develop this condition, the change typically occurs after a period of normal binocular vision. Unlike childhood forms where the condition might be congenital or occur during early development, adult onset esotropia appears unexpectedly. It is categorized under the larger umbrella of acquired strabismus and is often accompanied by diplopia (double vision) and other visual disturbances.
Here’s the thing: while the eyes have worked together in harmony for many years, certain changes in the muscles or neurological signals can disrupt this balance. For adults, this misalignment may be triggered by age-related tissue laxity, increased digital device usage, or even underlying neurologic or systemic conditions. Our eye doctors carefully evaluate each case to identify the unique factors contributing to the condition.
Adult onset esotropia tends to show a particular demographic pattern. Research indicates that it often appears in younger adults, typically between the ages of 18 and 60, with a slight predominance in females. Additionally, a significant number of these individuals tend to be myopic (nearsighted), although the condition is not limited exclusively to those with refractive errors.
Understanding the demographic trends helps our team to tailor diagnostic assessments and treatment plans. Many adults who develop esotropia experience a marked change in how they perceive depth and focus, which can have an immediate impact on everyday activities such as reading, driving, and working on a digital device.
Take the first step towards clearer vision—contact us today for a personalized evaluation and treatment options tailored to your needs.
One of the first signs of adult onset esotropia is the appearance of double vision, referred to medically as diplopia. This double vision occurs because the eyes, which were once perfectly coordinated, begin to send two separate images to the brain. Other common symptoms include:
Our eye doctors emphasize the importance of early recognition. If you notice persistent double vision or changes in eye alignment, scheduling an evaluation can prevent the development of additional complications and offer a route toward restoring comfortable, single vision.
Adult onset esotropia does not have one singular cause; rather, it often results from a combination of factors that alter the balance between the eyes. Some of the main contributors include:
Each case is unique. When you visit our office, our eye doctors conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying factors in your specific situation. By understanding whether the cause is primarily mechanical, neurologic, or a combination of both, they can tailor a treatment plan that considers both cosmetic and functional outcomes.
Take the first step towards clearer vision—contact us today for a personalized evaluation and treatment options tailored to your needs.
Adult onset esotropia can lead to double vision and eye misalignment. Learn about symptoms, causes, and treatment options available today.
