Lazy eye (medically known as amblyopia) is a unique vision disorder. Its development and progression have more to do with the brain’s ability to process visual information received from both eyes than a defect in the structure of the problem eye itself. As a result, amblyopia cannot be corrected using prescription eye glasses or contact lenses. There are, however, lazy eye treatments available, including in some cases surgery. Read on to learn more about lazy eye causes and treatments, and find out what to do if you suspect your child may be suffering from this form of vision impairment.
Lazy Eye Causes
Anything that interferes with the vision field of one of a child’s eyes during the critical development phase (from birth to age 6) can result in the development of amblyopia. The most common of lazy eye causes is constant lateral strabismus, or perpetual abnormal turning of a single eye. Although a severe case of strabismus can be easily recognized by a parent, a very slight case may not be readily visible. Having your child receive a complete eye examination from a pediatric doctor is usually the best way to determine whether strabismus is causing your child vision problems.