AMBLYOPIA (LAZY EYE)

Commonly known as lazy eye, amblyopia is poor vision in an eye that does not receive adequate use during early childhood.

WHAT CAUSES AMBLYOPIA

Amblyopia is often a consequence of one of the eyes not being used, from either crossed eyes (strabismus) or ptosis, which is a drooping of the upper eyelid. It may also be caused by one eye simply having better vision and a child relying on it more heavily.

HOW CAN YOU CORRECT AMBLYOPIA

With early diagnosis and treatment, the sight in the lazy eye can be restored. However, left untreated, the eye may become functionally blind. Treatments include

• Patching or covering the better-seeing eye
• Eye drops or ointments
• Contact Lenses
• Glasses
• Surgery