The so-called disease "amblyopia," or lazy eye, is a reversible decrease in vision. The main characteristics of this disease are the lack of functionality of one eye, which causes both eyeballs to visualize two very different images, and the human brain cannot combine them into a single, three-dimensional image. As a result, one eye stops functioning.
Causes
The causes of amblyopia can be very diverse. One of the main causes is strabismus, which subsequently leads to amblyopia. Conversely, amblyopia can become the primary cause of strabismus due to the inability to combine images from both eyes. There can also be hereditary causes for the development of amblyopia.
Symptoms of Amblyopia
Blurriness, distortions, and alterations in the image seen by each eye separately are the first alarming signs of the disease. There are also cases where a person closes one eye and suddenly discovers that the other eye is not functioning.
Diagnosis of Amblyopia in Israel
Diagnosing amblyopia on your own is very difficult; therefore, it is recommended to undergo regular examinations by an ophthalmologist to identify possible eye diseases.
Treatment of Amblyopia in Israel
Modern ophthalmology offers many methods for treating amblyopia.
The most effective of them are:
- occlusion; this method involves excluding the healthy eye from the visual process to enhance the functionality of the "lazy eye"; an occluder is attached to the frame of the glasses, and the person wears it for a certain period; homemade patches or suction covers may also be used; treatment typically lasts from six months to one and a half years
- light stimulation method; this involves stimulating the retina with flashes of light and may include color therapy
- computerized method; helps develop the perception of visual images, coordination of the joint work of the eyeballs and muscles
- auto-training "Amblyocor"; this treatment consists of a complex of video-computer vision correction; while observing a changing image on the monitor, specialized sensors record the eye-brain communication, during which the correctly perceived image is retained for some time, while the incorrectly perceived one disappears; this method helps improve the functioning of the poorly seeing eye
- gel-neon laser therapy; a method of affecting the structure of the eye using low-intensity light beams.
These methods of treating amblyopia must be used alongside home vision training and the intake of a vitamin complex.
Prevention
As preventive measures, it is necessary to visit an ophthalmologist at least twice a year, take multivitamin complexes for the eyes, consume healthy food, and avoid harmful habits.