Amblyopia
Amblyopia is a common condition (affecting about 2 or 3 out of 100 children) that occurs when vision is reduced due to the brain and eye not working together normally. This occurs despite glasses or contact lenses if needed. Sometimes this is referred to as a "lazy eye".
Usually one eye is affected, but amblyopia in both eyes takes place also. It is essential to detect and treat this condition as early as possible, as amblyopia could permanently affect the vision.
Amblyopia is usually caused by improper focus of the eye (e.g. from near-sightedness, far-sightedness, or astigmatism) or an eye misalignment (strabismus, esotropia, exotropia). A comprensive eye exam helps rule-out other less common causes.
Treatment for amblyopia involves trying to strengthen the weaker eye. Usually this is addressed through patching or atropine of the stronger eye as to force the child to use the weaker eye. Glasses or contact lenses aid in providing a clear image.
Illinois requires an eye exam from an ophthalmologist or optometrist for children beginning kindergarten or a student entering a State of Illinois school for the first time.
Usually one eye is affected, but amblyopia in both eyes takes place also. It is essential to detect and treat this condition as early as possible, as amblyopia could permanently affect the vision.
Amblyopia is usually caused by improper focus of the eye (e.g. from near-sightedness, far-sightedness, or astigmatism) or an eye misalignment (strabismus, esotropia, exotropia). A comprensive eye exam helps rule-out other less common causes.
Treatment for amblyopia involves trying to strengthen the weaker eye. Usually this is addressed through patching or atropine of the stronger eye as to force the child to use the weaker eye. Glasses or contact lenses aid in providing a clear image.
Illinois requires an eye exam from an ophthalmologist or optometrist for children beginning kindergarten or a student entering a State of Illinois school for the first time.