- Lazy eye, or amblyopia, is a vision disorder where one eye has reduced acuity despite correction
- It typically starts in infancy or early childhood and affects about 1-2% of the global population
- Causes include misaligned eyes, significant refractive differences, or obstructions like cataracts
If one eye does not seem to work as well as the other, especially in childhood, it may be a condition commonly known as "lazy eye". Medically this condition is called Amblyopia, lazy eye is a vision development disorder where one eye fails to achieve normal visual acuity, even with glasses or contact lenses. It usually begins in infancy or early childhood and, if left untreated, can lead to permanent vision problems. According to a study published in 2024, the global prevalence of amblyopia is estimated at 1-2%. To prevent this, it becomes important that every child should have a vision screening at least once between the ages of 3 and 5. So what exactly causes it, and can it be cured?
What Happens In Lazy Eye?
In amblyopia, the brain and the affected eye do not work together properly. The brain begins to favour the stronger eye and gradually ignores signals from the weaker one. Over time, this reduces vision in the weaker eye because the visual connection between the brain and eye is not fully developed. In this case, it is pertinent to note that the eye itself may look completely normal.
Also read: The good news is that amblyopia can often be treated successfully, especially if detected early
What Causes Lazy Eye?
There are several common causes:
1. Strabismus
Strabismus refers to misaligned eyes, where one eye may turn inward, outward, upward or downward. Because the eyes are not aligned, the brain may ignore input from one eye to avoid double vision.
2. Refractive Errors
If one eye has significantly higher nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism than the other, the brain may rely more on the clearer eye.
3. Obstruction
Anything that blocks light from entering the eye during early development, such as congenital cataracts or droopy eyelids, can lead to amblyopia.
Signs And Symptoms
Lazy eye often develops before the age of seven. Signs may include:
- One eye wandering or drifting
- Squinting or closing one eye
- Poor depth perception
- Head tilting
- Difficulty with reading
Because children may not complain about blurry vision, routine eye screening is essential.
Can Lazy Eye Be Cured?
The good news is that amblyopia can often be treated successfully, especially if detected early. So, early treatment is a key to preventing amblyopia. The brain is more adaptable during childhood. Treatment started before age seven generally has the best outcomes. However, older children and even adults may still benefit from therapy.
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Treatment Options
If refractive errors are the cause, prescribing glasses may improve vision in the weaker eye. Corrective lenses are the primary treatment for amblyopia, their purpose is to provide the sharpest possible image to the affected eye by correcting refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. In some children, this alone can fully resolve amblyopia, but as per American Academy of Ophthalmology, though more often corrective lenses are combined with additional therapies like patching or atropine drops.
Covering the stronger eye with a patch forces the brain to use the weaker eye. This strengthens the visual connection over time. The duration of patching depends on severity and age.
What Happens If It Is Not Treated?
Untreated amblyopia can result in:
- Permanent vision loss in one eye
- Poor depth perception
- Increased risk if the stronger eye is injured later in life
That is why early detection through routine eye exams is so important. Lazy eye, or amblyopia, is a common childhood condition where one eye does not develop normal vision. It is not simply an eye that looks "lazy", but a brain eye coordination issue. The earlier it is diagnosed, the better the chances of successful treatment. With glasses, patching or other therapies, many children achieve significant improvement. If you notice signs of eye misalignment or vision issues in a child, do not delay an eye check up. Early action can protect lifelong vision.
Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
