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Amblyopia: Wearing an Eye Patch

Table of Contents


Overview

Amblyopia is a childhood problem that happens when one eye is weaker than the other. The brain chooses to take in images only from the stronger eye. If the weak eye doesn't have to work, it isn't able to develop good vision. This leads to poor vision in the weaker eye.

For amblyopia to be treated, your child must use the weak eye. This will force the eye to get stronger. Your doctor may block the strong eye with an eye patch. Or they may blur vision in the strong eye with eyedrops or glasses. Treatment may last for a few weeks or months.


How you can help your child wear an eye patch for amblyopia

Be supportive

By giving support and reassurance, you can help your child comply with the patching treatment.

Try to have some fun

Here are some things you can do to make the times your child is wearing the patch more fun and to help make the treatment more effective.

Make the weak eye work

Patching treatment for amblyopia will be more effective if your child's weak eye has to work harder while the normal eye is patched. Games and activities that require visual acuity and eye-hand coordination work well.


Credits for Amblyopia: Wearing an Eye Patch

Current as of: June 5, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.


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