Amblyopia 
Amblyopia is decreased vision in one eye caused by abnormal visual development early in life.  It is often referred to as “lazy eye”.  It is the leading cause of vision loss in children. Up to 3 in every 100 children can have it.  Early detection is imperative.  Vision develops from birth to approximately age 9.  If left untreated it can lead to permanent vision loss in one eye.
 
Causes of Amblyopia:  

• Strabismus: misalignment of one eye

           Esotropia (crossing), Exotropia (outward drifting)

• Refractive: unequal refractive powers between each eye

           Hyperopia (farsighted), Myopia (nearsighted), Astigmatism

• Deprivation: obstruction of vision due

           Ptosis (droopy eyelid), cataract (cloudy lens)

Risk Factors:  
The chances of having amblyopia are higher in some children with the following:

• Premature birth
• Developmental disabilities
• Family history of amblyopia or strabismus
  
• Childhood cataracts or other ocular abnormalities

 
Diagnosis:  
Early detection is critical to assure normal visual development.  Your pediatrician usually screens newborns and infants in their offices. Some vision screenings are performed at school.  The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends children have their vision tested by a professional between the ages of 3-5 years old.
 
Treatment:  
Treatment depends on the cause of amblyopia. Generally, it entails forcing the brain to use the poorer seeing eye to make it stronger.

Treatment options include:

• Patching: Most common form of treatment.  The patch is worn for a few hours every day to force the weaker eye to develop better vision.  Visual improvement may take months to years to reach the final endpoint.
• Glasses: May be needed in addition to patching to correct any refractive inequalities and allow the eyes to “balance” each other.
• Eye Drops: Occasionally atropine drops are used to blur the image in the good eye. This modality can be used in non-cooperative children.
• Surgery: Strabismus surgery may be needed to “align” the eyes in order to improve the ability for the brain to use the eyes together.
  

Call for an appointment today if you suspect your child has a lazy eye, amblyopia, or a visual development problem.