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Amblyopia (Lazy Eye) Therapy in Calgary

Amblyopia, commonly known as Lazy Eye, is a vision disorder that occurs when the brain fails to process inputs from one eye properly.

This condition can lead to blurry vision, poor depth perception, and vision problems in the affected eye. Amblyopia typically develops during childhood and, if left untreated, can result in lifelong vision problems.

Do you or your child suffer from a Lazy Eye?

What causes Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)?

Amblyopia (Lazy Eye) can stem from various underlying eye conditions, including strabismus (crossed eyes), refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism), or childhood cataracts.

These conditions can cause the brain to favor the vision in one stronger eye and suppress the input from the weaker eye, leading to Amblyopia (Lazy Eye).

Deficient Binocular Vision

One of the most significant consequences of Amblyopia is deficient depth perception or deficient binocular vision.

This less clear vision in one eye patch one side means that the brain struggles to combine the images from both eyes properly, resulting in poor 3D vision, difficulty judging distances, and impaired hand-eye coordination.

Comprehensive Eye Exam for Adults & Children

Early detection early diagnosis and treatment of Amblyopia (Lazy Eye) is crucial.

Amblyopia (Lazy Eye) Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the risk most children of developing Amblyopia (Lazy Eye), including:

Family history: Amblyopia tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic component.
Premature birth: Babies born prematurely are at higher risk for developing Amblyopia.
Small misaligned eyes: Conditions like strabismus (crossed eyes) or droopy eyelid can cause the eyes to be misaligned, leading to Amblyopia.
Significant refractive errors: Uncorrected nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism can contribute to Amblyopia.

Treating The Underlying Eye Problems

Treating Amblyopia (Lazy Eye) involves addressing the underlying weak eye and conditions and encouraging the stronger eye and brain to use the weaker eye more effectively.

Eye patch Occlusion
(No longer recommended)

Traditionally, Amblyopia was treated by either wearing a patch over one eye or by either wearing a patch or an eye patch over the stronger eye to force the brain to use the weaker eye.

However, this method is no longer widely recommended, as it can disrupt the development of binocular vision and depth perception.

In-office Binocular
Vision Therapy

Another effective option is in-office binocular treatment.

This vision therapy involves using specialized glasses or contact lenses in, prisms, and filters to encourage the brain to combine the images from one eye both eyes more effectively.

Video Game
Eye Training Therapy

One modern approach to Amblyopia and treatment options is video game eye training therapy.

This involves using specialized computer games and exercises designed to stimulate the weaker eye and improve its connection to the brain.

Eye Surgery

In some cases, eye surgery may be recommended to correct underlying conditions like strabismus, cataracts, or droopy eyelids that contribute to the Amblyopia symptoms.

When Should a Child's Vision Be Tested?

Early detection early diagnosis and treatment of Amblyopia (Lazy Eye) are crucial for the full eye health and best possible outcomes better vision and stronger eye back.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends the following vision screening timeline:

Newborns: All newborns should undergo a basic eye exam before leaving the hospital.
6 months: Infants should have their eyes checked for proper eye movement and alignment.
3-4 years: Children should receive a comprehensive eye exam to check for Amblyopia, refractive errors, and other vision problems.
5 years and older: Annual vision screenings should be performed at a professional optometrist.

The Many Problems Caused By Amblyopia

Untreated Amblyopia (Lazy Eye) can lead to various vision problems and difficulties with normal vision and social issues, including:

Social Stigmas
& Bullying

Children with Amblyopia may face social stigmas and bullying due to the appearance of their eyes or the need for older children to wear an eye patch or glasses.

Blurry
Vision

The weaker eye in Amblyopia often experiences blurry vision, making it difficult to see clearly and perform tasks that require visual acuity.

Difficulty
Judging Space

Amblyopia can impair depth perception and the the child's vision and the child's eyes'' ability to focus properly judge distances accurately, which can affect hand-eye coordination and spatial awareness.

Poor Hand-Eye
Coordination

The poor vision in the affected eye can cause difficulties with vision tracking, make vision blurry, or blur vision of moving object, making it challenging to read or follow moving objects.

Troubles
Reading

Impaired depth perception and binocular vision loss can lead to poor hand-eye coordination, affecting activities like sports, driving, and other tasks that require precise visual-motor skills.

Easy Blink Optometry In Calgary

Easy Blink Optometry is a leading optometrist in Calgary, offering comprehensive services for the diagnosis and treatment of Amblyopia (Lazy Eye) and other vision problems.

Our team of experienced optometrists and vision therapists utilize the latest techniques and technologies, including binocular vision exercises, specialized lenses, and other advanced treatment methods to help patients achieve their best possible vision.

For those seeking Amblyopia (Lazy Eye) therapy in Calgary, Easy Blink Optometry offers a supportive and compassionate environment, ensuring that patients receive the care and attention they need to overcome their vision challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most effective treatment for Lazy Eye?

The most effective treatment for Amblyopia (Lazy Eye) typically involves a combination of approaches to improve vision, including vision therapy exercises, specialized lenses or eye patches, and, in some cases, eye surgery. The specific treatment plan is tailored to the individual's underlying eye condition and the severity of the Amblyopia.

Can Lazy Eye be cured in adults?

While it is more challenging to treat Amblyopia (Lazy Eye) in child's eyes than in adults, it is possible to improve vision in the affected eye through vision therapy and other treatment methods. Early intervention in childhood provides the best chances for a complete cure of wandering eye, but adults can still benefit from treatment to the blurred vision in unaffected eye and improve their visual function and quality of life.

Is Lazy Eye hereditary?

Yes, there is a genetic component to Amblyopia (Lazy Eye). Children with a family history of Amblyopia or other eye conditions like strabismus (crossed eyes) or refractive errors are at a higher risk of developing lazy eye. Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and treatment of blurry eye in these cases.

How long does it take to treat Lazy Eye?

The duration of Amblyopia (Lazy Eye) treatment can vary depending on the severity of the condition, the underlying cause, and the age of the patient. In children, treatment may take several months to a year or more, while in adults, the process start treatment can be longer and more challenging. Consistent follow-up and adherence to the treatment plan are essential for achieving the best possible outcomes.