Amblyopia, better known as lazy eye, is a condition that prevents one eye from focusing properly. The affected eye appears normal but does not function as it should because the brain is relying more heavily on the other eye.

Causes of Lazy Eye

Any condition that doesn’t allow the eye to focus can cause amblyopia. It can also be brought on by strabismus, or the misalignment of both eyes. Patients with strabismus may have eyes that turn out or cross. Cataracts can also cause lazy eye.

Lazy Eye Treatment

Patients who wear glasses may notice some vision improvement, but this will not completely correct the condition. The brain becomes accustomed to seeing the blurry image of the affected eye, which means it must re-learn how to use it.

To do this, the normal eye can be covered with a patch. This may be done for several hours daily or all day. Treatment may take weeks or even months. People who have trouble wearing the patch can be given a prosthetic contact lens that stops light from entering the good eye.

Atropine eye drops may be used instead. One drop is placed in the patient’s good eye each day to blur vision and force the brain to strengthen the lazy eye.

Adults with lazy eye or anyone who notices changes in their vision should contact one of our ophthalmologists to learn more about diagnosis and treatment options. Contact Eye Michigan for an appointment today.

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