Amblyopia

Amblyopia is a common visual disorder in children that can be reversed if detected early. Infants must learn to use their eyes for focusing and aligning, similar to learning to walk and talk, within the critical first nine years of life.

 Any eye condition preventing clear image focus can lead to amblyopia in children. Early diagnosis and treatment by an ophthalmologist, specializing in visual disorders, are crucial.

Contrary to common belief, not all babies squint at birth. If a child persistently squints for more than six months, parents should consult a doctor promptly, as waiting for eye problems to resolve on their own is not advisable.

 Amblyopia can arise when one eye fails to develop correctly, often due to strabismus (misaligned eyes) or variations in focusing ability between the eyes. The brain may prioritize the stronger eye, leading to amblyopia in the weaker eye due to disuse.

Treatment may involve corrective glasses, eye alignment correction, or occlusion therapy (covering the stronger eye). Parents play a crucial role in recognizing warning signs and ensuring diligent adherence to prescribed treatments, especially with young children.

Glasses can aid healthy eyes, but their effectiveness is maximized with early intervention. They may only mask symptoms if prescribed too late, highlighting the importance of timely professional assessment and treatment.