What is the primary characteristic of esotropia?

Esotropia is characterized by a convergent horizontal strabismus, where one or both eyes turn inward towards the nose. This inward turning can occur constantly or intermittently and is often noticeable in various settings, especially when a person tries to focus on an object. The condition can be due to factors like muscle imbalances, neurological issues, or refractive errors that affect vision.

Recognizing esotropia is important as it can affect depth perception and visual development, especially in children. Timely intervention, which may include glasses, vision therapy, or surgical options, is crucial to improve visual outcomes and prevent amblyopia, commonly known as lazy eye. Understanding this primary characteristic helps in the identification and management of the condition effectively.