CAUSES AND SYMPTOMS OF LAZY EYE (AMBLYOPIA)

Still on Lazy Eye, otherwise called Amblyopia, and in this post, We will look at the causes of Amblyopia.

Amblyopia typically develops in early childhood, often before the age of 6. In most cases, the exact cause is unknown.

LET US SEE HOW THIS CAN HAPPEN

Normally, the brain uses nerve signals from both eyes to see. But if an eye condition makes the vision in one of your eyes worse, the brain then tries to work in such a way that it turns off signals from the weaker eye, relying only on the stronger eye.

WHAT CAUSES AMBLYOPIA?

Below are some factors that can contribute to its development.

1: REFRACTIVE ERRORS– Differences in vision between the two eyes, such as Nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, can cause amblyopia. These problems are normally managed with prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses.
2: STRABISMUS– Crossed eyes or misaligned eyes can lead to amblyopia. This is when the eyes don’t align, one eye may drift in and out, up or down. Normally the eyes are supposed to move together as a pair.
3: CATARACTS– Blurry visions as a result of cloudiness in the eyes can cause Amblyopia
4: GENETICS- Family history plays a significant role in the development of amblyopia.
5: PTOSIS- Droopy eyelids can block vision and lead to amblyopia.
6: EYE INJURIES- Trauma to the eye can cause amblyopia.

HOW DO I KNOW THAT MY CHILD/FRIEND/ NEIGHBOUR/COLLEAGUE/ACQUAINTANCE IS SUFFERING FROM AMBLYOPIA??

This condition can be hard to notice. Children with Amblyopia may have what is called POOR DEPTH PERCEPTION. That is to say, they have trouble telling how near or far an object is, including the length, depth and width of an object “.
Because this condition is not easily detected except when it has been diagnosed through an eye examination by your doctor, it is therefore important for all kids to get a vision screening at TREETOP VISION EYE CENTRE (TREVEC), the best eye clinic in Utako Abuja, at least once between ages 3 and 5.

Some of the symptoms or signs that could be noticed by parents may include:

1: Squinting (looking at something with 1 or both eyes closed partially in an attempt to see more clearly).

2: Blurred vision: Reduced vision in one eye, which may not be noticeable until later in life.

3: Eye misalignment: Depending on how long the amblyopia has been, there could be STRABISMUS or crossed eyes.

4: Head tilting: Tilting the head to compensate For amblyopia typically e to move or shift.

We will talk about its treatments in our next post. Stay tuned.

TREVEC CARES!!!