What is Amblyopia?

Amblyopia, often called "lazy eye," is a condition where vision does not develop properly in one eye during childhood. This occurs when the brain favors one eye over the other, causing the weaker eye to lose its ability to see clearly. Before you visit Optica 20 20 San Antonio in San Antonio, TX, continue reading to learn about some causes and symptoms of amblyopia!

Causes of Amblyopia

The main causes of amblyopia include strabismus (misaligned eyes), a significant difference in refractive errors between the eyes (anisometropia), or a physical obstruction in one eye, such as a cataract. In cases of strabismus, one eye may turn inward, outward, upward, or downward, disrupting the brain’s ability to use both eyes together. When there is a difference in refractive errors, the brain may ignore the blurry images from the weaker eye, favoring the clearer image from the stronger eye.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Amblyopia can be difficult to detect, as many children may not show any obvious signs of vision problems. Common symptoms include poor depth perception, difficulty focusing, or squinting. In more severe cases, one eye may appear visibly misaligned. Since the condition often affects only one eye, the stronger eye may compensate, making it hard to notice the problem.

Treatment Options

Treatment for amblyopia is most effective when started early. Our optometrist may recommend patching the stronger eye to force the brain to use the weaker eye, corrective lenses, or eye drops to blur the stronger eye temporarily. In some cases, surgery may be needed to correct strabismus or remove a cataract. The treatment plan will depend on the cause and severity of the condition.

Visit Us If You’re Seeking an Eye Exam near You

If you suspect your child may have amblyopia or are concerned about their vision, contact Optica 20 20 San Antonio in San Antonio, TX, at (210) 928-2020 to schedule an appointment. Our team is here to provide a thorough evaluation and discuss the best treatment options for your family. We also offer walk-in exams and same-day appointments for your convenience. When you need an eye doctor near you, we’re ready to assist!