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Focusing on Lazy Eyes

Does your child have a lazy eye? It comes about when the brain turns off or suppresses vision in one eye. This can happen if someone isn't able to see as well with one of their eyes because of issues with distance vision, and in some cases, astigmatism. Usually, an eye patch is the central and most productive part of strengthening lazy eyes. We generally instruct our patients to have their patch on for several hours a day, and often the patients will need eye glasses as well. Patching.

It can be quite difficult to have your child fitted with an eye patch, especially if they are quite young. When their better eye is covered, it infringes on their ability to see. It's a confusing notion- your child needs to wear the patch to help the eyesight in their weaker eye, but that weak eyesight is precisely what makes patches so hard. But don't worry; there are quite a few methods to help your kids keep their patch on. With preschoolers, perhaps you can use a reward chart with stickers. Patch manufacturers are aware of the issue; patches are sold in lots of kid-friendly colors and patterns. Make it an activity by allowing them to select a new and fun patch every day and implement the aforementioned stickers as prizes. Kids who are a little older will be able to intellectualize the patching process, so it's helpful to have a talk about it.

Another trick some parents find helpful is also putting a patch on their child's favorite doll or stuffed animal. Flotation wings are also helpful in keeping younger patients from pulling their patches off.

Patches are great and can be very successful, but it really requires you to stay committed to your long term goal.

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