Jun 17th 2020
Posted by Accuspire
Amblyopia - Diagnosis And Treatment
It is difficult for a child to detect amblyopia. Even parents cannot detect the problem unless the child has strabismus or other eye problems.
Amblyopia Diagnosis
Ophthalmologists check whether there is difference of vision in both eyes. To examine a child's vision, ophthalmologist covers one eye and tells the child to follow a moving object. He also notices the reaction of the child. The presence of amblyopia in other eye is confirmed when the child tries to look below or above the patch. This is followed by a complete eye examination for other vision problems.
The eyes of children should be checked before they turn four. When they become infant their eyes should be checked by ophthalmologist for cataracts or other eye diseases, if there is a family history of eye diseases.
Usually the weaker eye is corrected by putting a patch on the other eye. Eye drops as well as a lens to blur the vision in the stronger eye is also used. Generally it takes weeks or months to strengthen vision in the weaker eye. Once the eyes get strengthened a patch is applied on the eyes for few years, as there is a chance for the eyes to get weaker again.
Eye Patches for Amblyopia
The eye patch must be comfortable and firm. It must remain in place and the child should not be able to peek from the edges. They are available in drug store in various sizes. Do not use pirate type patches. There are patches available for glass wearers also. They are attached to the lens. However they are not good for children who are wearing patches for the first time, as the child can peek through the edges.
Children dislike their stronger eye patched. Parents must make them understand the need for them. Otherwise the treatment will fail. Try to distract them from the thought that they are wearing the patches. For restoring normal vision in the weak eye, applying patches is the only solution.
Amblyopia Treatment
There are some things to consider with the patching treatment. Do not overuse blurring eye drops or the patch as it can affect vision in the stronger eye. Keep a tab on appointment with ophthalmologist. If the skin around the eye patch gets irritated, try a different size.
When a surgery is made to correct the eye problem, children must continue wearing the eye patch or cover the strong eye. Children must use the week eye to make the treatment effective. If amblyopia is left untreated, the child will suffer from lifelong vision problem.
