Amblyopia (Lazy Eye): Why Early Treatment Matters

Posted in Eye Blog, Eye Exam, Fluctuating Vision, Medical, Mount Vernon, Pediatrics, Sedro-Woolley, Stanwood, Whidbey

Amblyopia, often referred to as “lazy eye,” occurs in childhood when the brain develops preference for the vision of one eye over the other eye. This can happen due to a variety of factors and prevent the weaker eye from developing normal vision.

Several conditions can lead to the development of amblyopia.

• Strabismus: A misalignment of the eyes. One or both eyes may present turning inward (esotropia), outward (exotropia), upward (hypertropia), or downward (hypotropia). When the brain receives conflicting images, like double vision, it suppresses the input from the misaligned or weaker eye.
• Anisometropia: When a significant difference in refractive error (nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism) is present between the two eyes, the brain will rely primarily on the eye with clearer vision.
• Cataracts or other eye diseases: Any eye health condition that impairs vision for one eye can lead to amblyopia.

Symptoms of someone at risk for amblyopia are as follows:

• Reduced vision in one eye.
• Eye turning or crossing.
• Difficulty with depth perception.
• Squinting or covering one eye.

Early detection is critical for successful treatment. Regular eye exams for children that check vision, eye alignment, measure for the need for glasses and dilate to view internal structures of the eyes are all essential for proper assessment.

The goal in treating amblyopia is to strengthen the brain’s use of the weaker eye. The options to accomplish this task may include:

• Eyeglasses.
• An eye patching regimen.
• Prescription eye drops.
• Vision therapy with exercises and activities designed to improve eye coordination and visual skills.

The success of treatment depends on a few factors. Early detection and treatment will generally lead to better outcomes. Severe cases of amblyopia usually require more intensive treatment. Lastly, adherence to the prescribed treatment (glasses, eye patches, drops and/or vision therapy) is crucial for proper treatment.

Prevention of amblyopia may not always be possible, but there are steps anyone can take to decrease their risk.

Regular eye exams are encouraged for children. Adherence to treatment of eye conditions, especially underlying ones like strabismus or cataracts, helps to prevent or lessen the development of amblyopia.

Sources:
https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/amblyopia-lazy-eye
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10707-amblyopia-lazy-eye

Contact Cascadia Eye

If you would like to learn more, or if you would like to schedule an appointment or consultation with our talented doctors at Cascadia Eye, please contact us today. You may also pre-shop for glasses at our online pre-shopping page any time. Our entire team is committed to protecting and improving your vision and the health of your eyes. We are happy to answer any questions you might have!

In addition, join us on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube to ask your questions about eyes, exams, and our practice. We’d love to hear from you – and there might be a blog to address your questions in the future.