Treatment for Lazy Eye in Dodge City

Dr. Rob M. Christensen and the team at Christensen Eye Care would like you to know there is hope for children afflicted with Amblyopia (lazy eye). Amblyopia is the leading cause of vision problems for children under the age of seven. Through early diagnosis and treatment, we can help prevent long-term vision problems so your child can see to read and participate in everyday school activities.

When to Bring in Your Child to See the Eye Doctor

If you notice your child’s eye wandering after the first couple of weeks after birth, you should have him or her examined by their doctor. This is particularly important if there is a family history of Amblyopia, childhood cataracts, or any other serious eye conditions. All children should have their first complete eye exam between the ages of three and five.

The Symptoms of Amblyopia

Symptoms to look for include:

• One eye that wanders outward or inward (Amblyopia rarely affects both eyes)
• Eyes that appear to not work in unison
• Inadequate depth perception
• Shutting or squinting one eye
• Always tilting head
• Abnormal results of vision screening tests

What Causes Amblyopia?

In cases of lazy eye, there is often a stronger and weaker eye. The weaker eye receives fewer visual signals, eventually decreasing the ability of both eyes to properly work together. Some common causes of lazy eye are:

• A difference in sharpness of vision between the eyes which is known as refractive amblyopia.
• A muscle imbalance which is known as strabismus amblyopia.
• A problem with one eye such as a cataract.

Is There a Lazy Treatment That Works?

The short answer is – YES! Contact lenses or glasses are often used to correct refractive problems. Eye patching and special eye drops are also popular forms of treatment that can correct your child’s lazy eye. It should be noted that deprivation amblyopia is a condition that can cause permanent vision loss if left untreated. Fortunately, this too can be corrected through early detection and treatment.

Lazy Eye Treatment in Dodge City

Some of the risk factors that are associated with an increased risk of Amblyopia are premature birth or if your child was unusually small at birth, development disabilities, and a family history of lazy eye. Remember, early detection can make the difference in great eyesight or permanent vision problems. Call Christensen Eye Care in Dodge City today at (620) 227-5433 to learn more about lazy eye treatment or to schedule an appointment with our eye doctor.