Amblyopia and Eye Care from an Eye Doctor Near You in San Antonio, TX

Greetings, friends. Today, I’ll walk you through amblyopia, more commonly known as “lazy eye.” It’s a condition that often develops in childhood and, if left untreated, can cause lasting vision problems. The good news is we at Optica 20 20 San Antonio in San Antonio, TX, are here to provide care and guidance for patients dealing with this condition, so let’s get into some frequently asked questions.

What Is Amblyopia?

Amblyopia occurs when one eye doesn’t develop proper vision, causing the brain to favor the stronger eye. Over time, the weaker eye fails to catch up, leading to decreased visual ability. It’s not always obvious, since the affected eye may look normal on the surface, but without treatment, it can result in permanent vision loss.

What Causes Amblyopia?

There are a few causes behind amblyopia. Strabismus, or crossed eyes, is a common one, where the eyes are misaligned. Another cause is significant differences in refractive errors between the two eyes—such as one being farsighted while the other is not. In some cases, cataracts or other conditions that block vision in one eye during early childhood can also lead to amblyopia.

How Is Amblyopia Treated?

Treatment works best when started early, ideally before the age of seven. One common approach is patching the stronger eye, which forces the brain to use the weaker eye and strengthen it over time. Another option is atropine eye drops, which temporarily blur vision in the stronger eye to achieve the same effect. In cases caused by refractive errors, glasses or contact lenses may also be prescribed to correct vision.

Can Adults Be Treated for Amblyopia?

While treatment is most effective in children, some adults can still benefit from therapy. New research suggests that the brain can remain adaptable even later in life, though the process is slower. Vision therapy, which involves specific exercises to train the eyes, can sometimes help adults improve their visual coordination and acuity.

How Can Amblyopia Be Prevented?

Early detection is the key to preventing amblyopia from causing permanent vision loss. Regular eye exams, starting in infancy, are essential—especially if there is a family history of eye problems. Parents should also watch for signs of crossed eyes or difficulties with vision. The earlier these issues are addressed, the better the chances of preventing amblyopia.

Is Amblyopia Common?

Amblyopia affects about 2-3% of children, making it one of the most common causes of visual impairment in young people. Since it often develops silently, many cases go unnoticed until a routine eye exam reveals the issue. This is another reason why regular check-ups at places like Optica 20 20 San Antonio are so important.

Get Same Day Appointments, Eye Care, Optometrist Services, and a Walk-in Eye Exam Near You from an Eye Doctor Near You

Amblyopia may sound like a complicated condition, but with early treatment, most children can recover normal vision. Even for adults, it’s never too late to explore options. If you suspect amblyopia in yourself or a loved one, reach out to the team at Optica 20 20 San Antonio in San Antonio, TX, for expert care and advice.

Your eyes are worth looking after—because good vision is a gift that should never be taken for granted. Call us at (210) 928-2020 for same day appointments, eye care, optometrist services, and a walk-in eye exam near you from an eye doctor near you.