A lazy eye, medically known as amblyopia, is a disorder of the eye in which the vision in one eye is reduced because that eye and the brain are not working together correctly. Amblyopia usually affects only one eye, but it can cause severe problems with depth perception, 3D vision, and the ability to judge distances. With a Beverly Hills, CA lazy eye, the eye looks normal, but it turns in or out when focusing on an object.
A lazy eye is often first noticed in infancy or early childhood. It may be difficult to tell if a newborn has a problem with their vision. But by six months of age, most babies begin to show some signs of vision problems, such as crossed eyes, a wandering eye, or persistent tearing.
This condition is most commonly caused by an imbalance in the muscles that control eye movement. If one eye turns in or out, the brain may learn to ignore the visual input from that eye and prefer the other eye. It can cause the vision in the affected eye to deteriorate.
A lazy eye can also be caused by a problem with how the eyes focus, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. A cataract or other problem that prevents light from reaching the retina can also cause amblyopia.
As a parent, you need to know the signs that your child has a lazy eye:
Your child has a family history of amblyopia or other vision problems
Genetics plays a role in many vision problems, and amblyopia is no exception. If anyone in your family has had this condition, your child may be at increased risk. Your doctor will likely check your child’s eyes more carefully if there is a family history of amblyopia or other vision problems.
Your child has crossed eyes or a wandering eye
If you notice that your child’s eyes sometimes cross or turn out, this may signify amblyopia. In some cases, the affected eye may wander in or out when your child looks at an object. It can happen if the eye muscles are not working together correctly.
Your child complains of blurry vision
If your child complains that things look blurry, it may signify that the eyes are not working together correctly. It can be a sign of amblyopia or another vision problem.
Your child squints when looking at an object
If your child squints when looking at an object, this may signify that the eyes are not working together correctly. It can be a sign of amblyopia or another vision problem.
Your child has difficulty seeing in 3D or judging distances
If your child has difficulty seeing in 3D or judging distances, this may signify amblyopia. It can make it difficult for your child to catch a ball or hit a target.
Your child avoids using one eye
If you notice that your child favors one eye over the other, this may signify amblyopia. Your child may hold their head tilted to one side or turn one eye in or out when looking at an object.
These are just some signs that your child may have a lazy eye. If you notice any of these signs, contact Beverly Hills Optometry: Advanced Dry Eye Center, and be sure to talk to your doctor. Amblyopia is treatable, but it is vital to catch it early.
