Helping Lazy Eyes Get Active

Are you concerned that your child has a lazy eye? It forms when the brain switches off or suppresses vision in one eye. This might occur if a child struggles to see properly through one eye due to issues with distance vision, and in some cases, astigmatism. Usually, an eye patch is prescribed to remedy a lazy eye. Our patients are told to have their patch on for a couple of hours a day, and patients will usually also need corrective glasses. But how does patching really work? Basically, employing the use of a patch trains your brain to connect with the weaker eye, and over time, strengthen it.

Often, moms and dads find it really hard to fit their kids with eye patches, especially if they're preschool-aged. Their stronger eye is covered with the patch, which infringes on their ability to see. It can be hard to justify the patch to your young child; that they must wear the patch to help the sight in their weaker eye, but this can only be done when their better eye is patched, which temporarily limits their sight. There are several methods to encourage your child to wear their patch. Employing the use of a reward system with stickers given when the patch is worn can be great for some kids. There are a variety of adhesive patches sold in many colors and patterns. Take advantage of all the options and make it fun by giving them the chance to select a different patch every day and then putting a sticker on the chart when the patch is properly worn. For kids who are a little older, explain the mechanics of wearing a patch, and refer to it as an effective way to build strength in their eye.

A successful result needs you to remain committed to your long term goal.