Lazy Eye (Amblyopia)sight can be improved or restored if diagnosed and treated early. Any eye problems should be checked out by an Optometrist or Ophthalmologist.


Steps
Check for Lazy Eye

1. Take a pen or bright colored object and have the child follow it with their eyes.
2. Move the object slowly to the right and then to the left.
3. Move it up and down.
4. Watch the child's eye to see if one is slow to follow.
5. Cover one eye and move the object again the same way.
6. Cover the other eye and move the object again. It should be obvious which eye is moving slower than the other.

Once Lazy Eye is Discovered

1. Put a patch over the good eye. Like a pirate patch. Do not put pressure on the good eye. This will force the 'lazy eye' to work harder.
2. Check the eye every month. The patch should be left on for 2 months to 1 year.
3. Leave the patch on for one month after eye moves correctly.

Tips

• You may have to build up to wearing the patch all day. Start with 20-30 minutes 3 times a day and increase the time until the patch is worn all day.
• Recheck the eyes each month. If there is no improvement. See your doctor. Some children need surgery for amblyopia.
• Eye glasses may be needed to help focus the lazy eye.

Warnings

• Any type of eye problem should be checked by an Optometrist or Ophthalmologist.
• If this is a birth defect, other areas were developing in utero at the same time, so the child needs to have a thoroughly checked for other problems.
• If left untreated, the eye may become functionally blind.