Amblyopia, commonly known as lazy eye, is a condition in which vision in one or both eyes does not develop properly during childhood, even though the eye may appear structurally normal. It occurs when the brain does not process visual signals from the affected eye effectively.
Amblyopia can develop due to:
Amblyopia may not always be obvious. Possible signs include:
Amblyopia is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination, including assessment of vision in each eye, eye alignment, and refractive error.
Treatment aims to improve vision in the weaker eye and may include:
Early treatment is crucial for best results.
If untreated, amblyopia can lead to permanent reduction in vision in the affected eye. Early detection and timely treatment significantly improve outcomes.
After successful treatment, regular follow-up is important to monitor vision and prevent recurrence. Some children may require maintenance therapy for a period of time.
