What complication should be explained to parents if their toddler's strabismus is not treated?

When discussing the potential complications of untreated strabismus in toddlers, one significant concern is the development of amblyopia, commonly referred to as "lazy eye." This condition occurs when the brain starts to favor one eye over the other due to misalignment, leading to decreased visual acuity in the affected eye. If strabismus is not addressed in early childhood, there is a risk of lasting impact on visual development, which can result in partial loss of sight in the weaker eye.

While increased eye pressure, enhanced risk of injury, and other issues may arise in various contexts, they do not directly relate to the primary concern in strabismus cases. The emphasis on amblyopia highlights the critical nature of timely intervention, which can prevent long-term visual impairment by ensuring that both eyes are properly aligned and utilized by the brain for vision. By addressing strabismus early, parents can help mitigate the risk of amblyopia and promote healthy visual development in their child.