The brain and the eyes work together to produce vision. Amblyopia is the medical term used when the vision of one eye is reduced because it fails to work properly with the brain. The eye itself looks normal and is often anatomically normal, but for various reasons the brain favors the other eye resulting in a condition sometimes called lazy eye. This condition often causes a misalignment of one of the eyes, but in many cases, has no cosmetic effect and often goes undiagnosed.
Amblyopia is one of the most common causes of preventable monocular or binocular visual impairment among children. It almost always affects a child’s 3-dimentional vision and can impact their development, school and athletic performance and self-esteem. Unless it is successfully detected and treated in early childhood, usually before 7 years old, amblyopia always persists into adulthood and is permanent. It is also the most common cause preventable visual impairment among children and adults.
If you or someone you love has symptoms of amblyopia, please contact Haller Eye Center today for a screening exam.
