Ophthalmology · Eye health

Amblyopia

Understand incomplete visual development in one eye and the value of early treatment.

Editorial publication · Medical review pending.

Understand

Amblyopia is underdeveloped vision in one eye, or rarely both eyes, during childhood.

A child may close one eye, squint, tilt the head, track poorly or have coordination difficulties, although there may be no visible sign.

A squint, a large prescription difference or a visual obstruction such as cataract can disrupt development between the eye and brain.

Vision screening and examination compare each eye and identify the underlying cause.

Age-appropriate acuity, refraction with drops, eye alignment and retinal examination are used.

Without treatment during visual development, reduced sight can become permanent.

Glasses, patching the stronger eye or blurring drops stimulate the weaker eye; the cause may also require surgery.

Arrange prompt assessment if a child squints, closes one eye, tilts the head or seems to see less well.

Sudden visual loss, a white pupil, pain or a red eye is not simple amblyopia and needs urgent assessment.

A procedure linked to a condition does not establish an indication for your individual situation.