Amblyopia is a vision disorder that occurs in children when one eye, which is otherwise normal, develops insufficiently for normal vision. The normal or less impaired eye then takes over for both.
The disorder progresses in three stages:
- The brain turns the weaker eye on and off in an attempt to see singly and clearly. This is called "suspension."
- The brain turns the weaker eye off indefinitely, but will use it if the other eye is covered or patched. This is called "suppression."
- When the misuse of the eye has continued so long that it is irreversible, the condition is called amblyopia.
As many as 920,000 American children under the age of six have amblyopia. The key to treating amblyopia is identifying the problem early. When not treated, the condition can lead to a lifelong vision impairment. | This information is in no way a substitute for a personal examination by an eyecare professional. To find a certified Carl ZEISS Vision practice near you, use our
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