while focusing my right eyeball moves outwards. - #11467

1. Outward drifting of one eye while focusing may suggest a muscle imbalance or weakness in eye coordination.

2. Since blinking temporarily resets the alignment, it could be related to fatigue, convergence insufficiency, or nerve involvement.

3. This is not usually from routine eyestrain alone and should not be ignored.

4. An eye specialist (ophthalmologist or neuro-ophthalmologist) can check with simple eye movement tests.

5. Please book a consultation soon for proper evaluation and timely treatment.

I’m Dr. Rohith Ayyadurai MBBS Diabetologist and General Physician. Please book a consultation with me here on AskDocDoc for a personalised evaluation and safe treatment plan.

What you’re describing sounds like a condition called intermittent exotropia, where one of the eyes tends to drift outward, typically when you’re focusing on something at a close range or when you’re tired. This can cause the symptoms you’re mentioning, such as blurry vision or difficulty focusing. In many cases, this eye alignment issue might be mild and primarily seen during specific activities. However, it’s important to address this condition, as it can sometimes lead to eye strain, headaches, or, in some cases, even double vision over time.

First, consider scheduling an appointment with an ophthalmologist for a thorough eye examination. They can evaluate the extent of the issue and determine the best course of action, which may include vision therapy to improve eye coordination, prescription glasses, or, less commonly, surgery if the condition is more severe. Another practical step could be incorporating regular breaks during tasks that require intense focus (like reading or using a computer) to reduce strain. The 20-20-20 rule can be particularly helpful here: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

If you notice an increase in frequency or severity of symptoms, or if you experience symptoms like persistent double vision, eye pain, or headaches, it’s crucial to seek a professional evaluation sooner rather than later. Early detection and intervention are key to preventing further complications and ensuring optimal visual health. Remember to keep track of symptoms and any triggers you notice to provide detailed information during your eye exam—it can be invaluable in tailoring an effective treatment plan.