Amblyopia or Lazy Eye
If you or your child is experiencing reduced vision in one eye, not correctable by glasses or contact lenses, it might be a sign of Amblyopia, often known as "lazy eye." Dr. David Antonyan, O.D. is skilled in the diagnosis and comprehensive treatment of Amblyopia, utilizing advanced techniques to improve vision and eye coordination effectively.
Amblyopia (Lazy Eye): Understanding and Treating Reduced Vision
What is Amblyopia?
Amblyopia, often referred to as "lazy eye," is a common vision condition where one eye fails to achieve normal visual acuity, despite the use of prescription glasses or contact lenses. It typically develops from birth up to age 7 years and is the most common cause of decreased vision in a single eye among children and younger adults.
Causes and Risk Factors
Amblyopia occurs when the brain and the affected eye are not working together effectively, leading to the brain favoring the other eye. This condition can be caused by:
Strabismus (Misaligned Eyes): The most common cause, where the eyes are not aligned properly.
Refractive Amblyopia: Significant differences in refractive errors between the two eyes, even with corrective lenses.
Deprivation Amblyopia: Caused by something obstructing light from entering and being focused in a child’s eye, such as cataract.
Symptoms to Watch For
One eye drifting inward or outward
Squinting or shutting an eye
Poor depth perception
Difficulty in school or sports due to vision problems
Diagnosing Amblyopia
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in preventing long-term visual problems. Our comprehensive eye exams at Vivid Visions Optometry are designed to detect amblyopia at an early stage, especially important for children who may not realize or be able to communicate their visual impairment.
Treatment Options
Treatment aims to strengthen the vision in the amblyopic eye and enable the brain to use both eyes together more effectively. Treatment methods include:
Prescription Glasses or Contact Lenses: To correct vision in the weaker eye.
Eye Patching: Covering the stronger eye to encourage use of the amblyopic eye.
Atropine Eye Drops: To temporarily blur vision in the stronger eye, forcing the weaker eye to work harder.
Vision Therapy: Exercises and activities to improve visual abilities and processing.
Our Approach at Vivid Visions Optometry
Led by Dr. David Antonyan, O.D, we are committed to providing personalized, effective treatment for amblyopia. We understand the importance of early intervention and are dedicated to helping our patients achieve the best possible vision.
If you’re in need of quality eye care, Dr. David Antonyan can help.
Vivid Visions Optometry, Inc serves patients from Valencia and all its surrounding cities.
Schedule your Initial General Eye Exam today and see