Amblyopia (lazy eye)
Amblyopia, commonly known as lazy eye, refers to the loss or lack of development of clear vision in one or both eyes. It often occurs due to crossed eyes or a significant difference in nearsightedness or farsightedness between the two eyes. Corrective eyeglasses or contact lenses cannot fully restore vision if amblyopia develops beyond the critical period.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Lack of Early Eye Exams: Failing to undergo comprehensive eye exams by 6 months of age and again at 3 years of age.
- Uncorrected High Prescription: Not addressing significant refractive errors with glasses or contacts.
- Family History: Genetic predisposition.
- Premature Birth: Premature infants are at higher risk.
- Developmental Disabilities: Conditions affecting visual development.
- Eye Turn (Strabismus): One eye turning inward or outward.
- Visual Deprivation: Conditions like congenital cataracts, ptosis (drooping eyelid), or corneal opacities.
Symptoms
Symptoms may not always be obvious.
Diagnosis
Early diagnosis improves the chances of complete recovery. The City Eye Center recommends comprehensive optometric examinations for children at 6 months and again at age 3. Lazy eye does not resolve on its own. Delayed diagnosis in preteens, teens, or adults may lead to less effective treatment.
Treatment
Treatment options for lazy eye include:
- Prescription Lenses
- Prisms
- Vision Therapy
- Eye Patching
Prevention
Ensure a comprehensive eye exam by 6 months of age and again by 3 years of age.
