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Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)

blurry or misaligned eyes

In a healthy visual system, both eyes work in harmony to provide a single, clear image of the world. This is called binocular vision.

Amblyopia, often referred to as lazy eye, is a condition where one or both eyes have decreased sharpness of vision that is not correctable by spectacles. The brain may choose to ignore the blurry image from the amblyopic eye and favour the image from the unaffected eye. If untreated, this can result in permanent vision loss in the affected eye.

Amblyopia can occur for several reasons, including:

  • Severe long-sightedness (hyperopia), short-sightedness (myopia), or astigmatism
  • Different vision strengths in each eye
  • Genetics or developmental delays
  • Drooping eyelids or cataracts

In some cases, amblyopia is caused by strabismus (misalignment of the eyes), where the brain suppresses the image from the misaligned eye.

What Happens to the Brain with Amblyopia?

The brain becomes confused when one eye sends blurry or misaligned images. To prevent seeing double, the brain suppresses the image from the affected eye, favouring the clearer image from the unaffected eye. Over time, this leads to the deterioration of vision in the suppressed eye while the unaffected eye becomes dominant.

If left untreated, the vision in the suppressed eye can deteriorate permanently, and the child may develop poor depth perception or struggle with activities requiring 3D vision.

Signs and Symptoms of Amblyopia Include

  • Decreased vision in one or both eyes, not corrected by glasses
  • Closing or covering one eye
  • Frequent rubbing of the eyes
  • Complaints of seeing blurry or distorted images
  • Poor depth perception

Why Should Parents Be Concerned?

The more severe the myopia, the greater the risk of developing serious eye conditions. As myopia increases, it can lead to complications such as Glaucoma, Cataracts, Retinal Detachment, and Myopia Maculopathy. Early detection and regular eye exams are crucial to managing these risks and maintaining eye health.

What You Can Do

  • Monitor for signs such as eye covering, squinting, or complaints of blurry vision.
  • Schedule regular eye exams as children’s vision changes rapidly, and early detection is key.
  • Encourage your child to practice visual skills through activities that promote eye coordination.
  • Follow the recommendations from your eye care professional to ensure the best treatment outcomes.
  • Download our guide to learn more about amblyopia and how to help your child.

If you suspect your child may have amblyopia, schedule a comprehensive eye test with our optometrists at Eyecare Kids, who have a special interest in children’s vision. Early detection is crucial to prevent long-term vision problems. We can help by monitoring for signs and ensuring regular eye exams are part of your child’s health routine.

Explore our management options for Amblyopia.

Download for FREE The Little Guide to Amblyopia

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Little Guide to Strabismus and Amblyopia

FAQs about Amblyopia from Parents and Guardians

Yes, treatment is most effective when started early, ideally before the age of 7 or 8. The brain’s ability to adapt is stronger at younger ages, which makes treatment more successful. However, older children or even adults can still benefit from certain treatments.

Yes, amblyopia can affect a child’s ability to read, write, and participate in other classroom activities. If the child is having trouble seeing clearly, it can make schoolwork harder and cause frustration. Early treatment can help improve their vision and performance in school.

Although amblyopia usually affects only one eye, it is possible, though rare, for both eyes to be affected. This can happen if both eyes have significant refractive errors or if there’s a condition like cataracts in both eyes.

An optometrist or ophthalmologist will perform a comprehensive eye exam to check for amblyopia. This may include tests for visual acuity (how well your child can see), eye alignment, and focusing ability. Regular eye exams are important, especially for young children, as amblyopia can develop without obvious signs.

There’s no guaranteed way to prevent amblyopia, but early detection is key. Regular eye exams, particularly for young children, can help identify vision problems before they lead to amblyopia. If your child has risk factors (like a family history of vision problems or strabismus), it’s important to monitor their vision closely.

If amblyopia is left untreated, the brain may continue to ignore the weaker eye, which can lead to permanent vision problems in that eye. It can also affect depth perception and other visual skills. The sooner it’s treated, the better the chances of improving vision.

Amblyopia typically doesn’t improve on its own. While some children may seem to “outgrow” it, the underlying vision problem is still present. That’s why early treatment is important to ensure the brain learns to use both eyes properly.

The length of treatment depends on the severity of the condition and how early it’s diagnosed. Treatment could take several months to a year or more. Some children may need long-term follow-up care to maintain good vision.

Your Child’s Sight is Precious

Good vision is vital for your child’s development, both academically and in their everyday life. Don’t wait for the signs to show up – let our behavioural optometrists help you give your child the best chance at clear, efficient vision.

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