Lazy Eye Treatment in Izmir, Turkey

What is Lazy Eye?

Lazy eye, medically known as amblyopia, is a vision problem in which one or both eyes have reduced visual acuity compared to normal. This condition usually develops during childhood and, if left untreated, can become permanent.

In cases of significant hyperopia (farsightedness) or astigmatism, one eye may see objects very blurry, causing the brain to ignore the blurred image. As a result, the child never learns to see clearly with that eye, leading to amblyopia. Lazy eye can also occur when there is a significant difference in prescription between the two eyes.

Treatment of lazy eye should ideally be completed by the age of 9–10 years. Therefore, children should have an eye exam by 2–3 years of age at the latest. If there is a family history of strabismus (eye misalignment),hyperopia, astigmatism, or high myopia, children should be closely monitored.

Eye exams before starting school can help prevent learning difficulties caused by undiagnosed vision problems.

Causes of Lazy Eye

Lazy eye (amblyopia) generally develops in childhood because the visual system is still maturing, and the brain is more adaptable during this period. Major factors causing lazy eye include:

Visual Coordination Problems: When the two eyes cannot work together properly, the brain may suppress the image from one eye and favor the other. This can happen if one eye has a different prescription or an eye has astigmatism or other visual problems.

Eye Closure or Drooping: Constantly closed eyes or an eye that closes when glasses are not worn can block light from entering, impairing vision development.

Blurred Vision or High Prescription: If one eye sees blurry images or has high myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism, the brain may ignore the image from that eye and rely on the other.

Eyelid Problems: Abnormalities or muscle issues in the eyelids can contribute to lazy eye.

Lack of Early Detection or Inadequate Treatment: Without early intervention and consistent treatment, vision problems can become permanent.

Lazy Eye (Amblyopia) Symptoms

• Constantly tilting or turning the head to one side while reading or watching TV
• Bending the head
• Keeping one eye closed
• Frequently rubbing or blinking the eyes
• Squinting
• Holding reading material very close, losing their place in lines, or following text with a finger
• Short attention span
• Frequent complaints of headaches

If your child shows these signs, they may have a vision problem.

Lazy Eye (Amblyopia) Treatment

Treatment for lazy eye (amblyopia) is generally most effective during childhood, while the visual system is still developing. The treatment approach depends on the underlying cause and the child’s age. Common treatment methods include:

• Glasses or Contact Lenses: If amblyopia is caused by refractive errors, corrective lenses can improve vision. They also encourage the weaker eye to be used more effectively.
• Eye Patching (Occlusion Therapy): The stronger eye is covered to force the weaker eye to work harder. This reduces the dominance of the stronger eye and strengthens the weaker one. Duration depends on the severity of amblyopia and the child’s age.
• Atropine Eye Drops: These drops temporarily blur the vision in the stronger eye by dilating its pupil, encouraging the weaker eye to be used more.
• Vision Exercises and Games: Designed for children, these activities stimulate the weaker eye in a fun and engaging way.
• Surgery: Rarely, if amblyopia is related to a physical issue (e.g., eyelid problems),surgical intervention may be required.

If untreated, amblyopia can lead to permanent vision impairment. Regular eye exams and early treatment are crucial for children. While treatment is most effective during childhood, some improvement may still be possible in adults.