Amblyopia, commonly referred to as lazy eye, is a vision disorder that occurs when one eye does not develop normal vision. At Atlantic EyeCare in Virginia Beach, VA, we understand how important clear and healthy sight is at any age. Whether in children or adults, early detection and treatment can help prevent long-term vision problems. Below, we’ll explore some of the most common causes of amblyopia.

Strabismus (Misalignment of the Eyes)

Strabismus is one of the most common contributors of amblyopia. It occurs when the eyes are not aligned properly and point in different directions. This misalignment causes the brain to ignore the signals from one eye, leading to reduced vision in that eye. Strabismus can develop in both children and adults, often resulting in amblyopia if not treated early.

Refractive Errors

Refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism can also contribute to the development of amblyopia. If one eye has a significantly stronger prescription than the other, the brain may begin to favor the stronger eye. Over time, this causes the weaker eye to lose clarity and brings on amblyopia.

Cataracts

A cataract is a clouding of the eye's natural lens, which can obstruct the light entering the eye and hinder vision. In children, congenital cataracts are sometimes present at birth, while in adults, age-related cataracts can happen over time. If left untreated, these conditions can lead to lazy eye by preventing the affected eye from focusing clearly.

Anisometropia

Anisometropia is a condition in which the two eyes have significantly different prescriptions. This disparity can cause the brain to rely on the clearer eye, leading to vision issues in the weaker eye. Without professional care, anisometropia can advance to amblyopia in both children and adults.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

If you need amblyopia treatment, our team at Atlantic EyeCare in Virginia Beach, VA, can help. To learn more about our effective solutions and schedule your visit, call us at (757) 340-7070 today. When you’re looking for a trusted optometrist near you, we’re ready to assist!