AmblyopiaLazy Eye
What is Amblyopia? Amblyopia, commonly known as “lazy eye,” occurs when one or both eyes do not achieve optimal vision even with the use of glasses. This condition arises during childhood and is attributed to factors affecting the development of vision. In early childhood, the brain undergoes the learning process of clear vision. In the case of amblyopia, the brain receives a blurred image from one or both eyes, hindering the development of clear vision. This occurs due to disruptions in the connections between the brain and the affected eye(s). While amblyopia can often be corrected in childhood, untreated cases may lead to permanent vision loss, making it a primary cause of vision impairment in children.
CAUSES OF AMBLYOPIA
Amblyopia occurs when a child’s eyes fail to develop normal vision, typically within the first few years of life. In situations where a child cannot effectively use both eyes together or experiences blurry vision in one or both eyes, the part of the brain responsible for vision development is adversely affected, resulting in diminished eyesight. Notably, amblyopia can manifest even if the external appearance of the eyes appears normal.
There are three primary types of amblyopia:
- Refractive Amblyopia – This is the most prevalent type, occurring when a child requires glasses but fails to wear them early in life. Despite outwardly normal appearances, the eyes that need glasses do not develop optimal vision.
- Strabismic Amblyopia – This type is associated with eye movement problems, where one eye may turn inward, outward, upward, or downward. In response, the brain tends to disregard or “turn off” the misaligned eye, impeding the learning process for clear vision.
- Deprivational Amblyopia – This is a rare form of amblyopia caused by conditions such as ptosis (droopy eyelid), cataract (cloudy spot in the eye’s lens), or cornea scar (cloudy spot in the clear front part of the eye). If not treated promptly, children with these conditions may never attain good vision and may experience significant visual impairment.
Dr. Graeber has successfully treated thousands of children with strabismus over her career. If you would like to learn more, click here or call to schedule an appointment.
