What Causes Lazy Eye and At What Age?

We are committed to providing you with valuable insights into eye health. Today, we focus on understanding lazy eye (amblyopia), its causes, and the age at which it typically develops.

Lazy eye, or amblyopia, is a condition where one eye does not develop proper vision during early childhood. This can result in poor vision in the affected eye if not treated promptly. Several factors can cause lazy eye. Strabismus, a condition where the eyes are misaligned, is a common cause. One eye may turn in, out, up, or down, causing the brain to rely more on the stronger eye, leading to amblyopia in the weaker eye. Refractive errors, significant differences in the refractive power of each eye, can also cause the brain to favor one eye over the other. Deprivation, where any condition obstructs vision in one eye, such as cataracts, can prevent proper visual development, leading to amblyopia.

Lazy eyes typically develop between birth and age 7. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment. Parents and caregivers should watch for signs such as eyes that do not move together, squinting or closing one eye, head tilting, and poor depth perception. Early intervention is key to treating lazy eye effectively. Common treatments include eyeglasses to correct refractive errors, patching to cover the stronger eye and force the weaker eye to work harder, eye drops to blur the vision in the stronger eye, and surgery in some cases of strabismus to align the eyes properly.

At Orbit Eye Center, Dr. Walid and our pediatric ophthalmologists specialize in diagnosing and treating lazy eye. We provide comprehensive care tailored to each child’s needs, ensuring the best possible outcomes. Untreated lazy eyes can lead to permanent vision loss in the affected eye. Early diagnosis and treatment significantly improve the chances of restoring normal vision. Regular eye exams for children are essential to detect and address any vision problems early on.

Orbit Eye Center is dedicated to providing exceptional eye care for children in Dubai. Our experienced team, cutting-edge technology, and personalized approach ensure that your child receives the best possible care. We are committed to helping your child achieve optimal eye health and vision. Contact us at Orbit Eye Center today to schedule an eye exam and learn more about how Dr. Walid and our team can support your child’s visual development.