Amblyopia, or “lazy eye,” is one of the most prevalent causes of vision loss in children. Though it is widespread, amblyopia will typically go undetected because it affects only one eye and will not necessarily show detectable symptoms. Fortunately, however, with proper treatment and early discovery, this illness can be controlled—and even eliminated.
We at Bajaj Eye Care are of the opinion that creating awareness about amblyopia is the sole way to stop kids from developing long-term vision issues. In this article, we dissemble everything you want to know about amblyopia—its reasons, signs, treatment, and how you can stop it.
Amblyopia is a developmental disorder of vision where one eye is unable to attain normal visual acuity with or without prescription glasses or contact lenses. It usually occurs during infancy or early childhood and occurs when the brain and the affected eye are not functioning in synchrony properly.
Over time, the brain adapts to relying on the stronger eye and discarding the visual information from the weaker eye. Amblyopia left unchecked can lead to permanent vision loss in the involved eye.
There are various underlying causes that can lead to amblyopia. The most prevalent causes are:-
When the eyes are not properly aligned—like in wall-eyes or crossed eyes—two distinct visual images are transmitted to the brain. The brain suppresses the image from the misaligned eye to prevent double vision, resulting in amblyopia.
This is due to a wide disparity in refractive errors (e.g., nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism) between the two eyes. The brain prefers to use the eye with better vision and disregards the blurred one, inhibiting its development.
This is the most perilous form and results from physical blockage which prevents light from entering the eye—like congenital cataracts, eyelid droop (ptosis), or scar tissue of the cornea. If not promptly treated, the brain never gets normal visual input from the eye.
The children with family history of amblyopia, strabismus, or other eye disorders are predisposed to develop it.
Amblyopia may not be easy to diagnose unless an eye test is done, particularly in young children. Some of its symptoms may be:-
Children may not even be aware that there is a problem because the dominant eye compensates. This is why regular eye tests are so important to spot early on.
We conduct careful pediatric eye checks at Bajaj Eye Care to identify amblyopia. Diagnosis will normally involve:-
Children must undergo a full eye test for the first time at 6 to 12 months, one at 3 years, and one before entering school.
The sooner amblyopia is detected and treated, the more favorable the result. Treatment is most effective in the visual developmental critical period (through age 8), but some benefits can still be derived from treatment in older children and adults.
Prescription glasses or contact lenses can correct refractive problems and assist in equalizing vision in the two eyes. In the majority of cases, this may be adequate to improve the functioning of the weaker eye.
Less difficult and the most prevalent form, patching involves shutting the stronger eye with a patch such that the brain will need to employ the amblyopic eye. The patch may be left on for a few hours throughout the day depending on the condition.
These drops are vision-distorting in the stronger eye, encouraging the use of the amblyopic eye. Atropine is an ideal choice for kids who resist patching.
Directed vision therapy sessions involve eye exercises to improve visual skills such as focusing, tracking, and eye coordination. It can be done in the clinic or home programs.
If amblyopia is due to cataracts or other physical blockages, surgery can be necessary to eliminate the blockage before visual rehabilitation can be initiated.
If amblyopia is treated early—ideally before age 7 or 8—the prognosis is good. Most children are able to achieve normal or almost normal vision for the affected eye. Unless treated, however, amblyopia can result in permanent vision loss and make the dominant eye more susceptible to blindness if it is injured or becomes ill later in life.
At Bajaj Eye Care, we stress early treatment and follow-ups to provide permanent outcomes and avoid recurrence.
Although it cannot be prevented entirely, amblyopia can be arrested if identified early. Certain preventive measures that parents can adopt include:
Ensure your child undergoes routine comprehensive eye exams—irrespective of whether or not they present with symptoms of vision impairment.
Be aware of symptoms of strabismus like crossed or misaligned eyes. If noted, consult an eye specialist immediately.
Struggling children in school or with coordination problems might be struggling with uncorrected vision difficulties. Don’t blame it on poor concentration.
Patching, meds, or glasses, whatever. Consistency is the name of the game. Defaulting on treatment can undo progress and impair vision.
If there’s a family history of amblyopia or eye disease, early evaluation is even more important.
We at Bajaj Eye Care use the latest diagnostic equipment, a friendly attitude towards children, and evidence-based therapy to provide the highest quality amblyopia children treatment. We have a professional staff so that the child and parents are well aware of the condition and are advised accordingly.
We provide personalized vision therapy programs and follow-ups specific to your child’s needs.
Amblyopia is a preventable but common visual condition that necessitates early detection and continuous treatment. Triggered by refractive issues, crossed eyes, or physical barriers, the condition may seriously hinder the development and quality of life in a child if halted too late.
By understanding the causes, identifying the signs, and receiving timely proper treatment at a well-established clinic like Bajaj Eye Care, parents can help their children build strong and healthy eyesight.
If you find your child might be having issues with their eyesight, don’t wait. Make an appointment with our eye experts for children today. A small amount of early intervention can prove to be life-changing.
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