Lots of our younger patients experience a lazy eye. Amblyopia develops when sight is suppressed, but only in one eye. This can occur if your child can't see as well with one eye because of issues with distance vision, and in some cases, astigmatism. Usually, patches are prescribed to remedy a lazy eye. Our patients are instructed to have their patch on for a few hours daily, and in most cases, the patients will need eye glasses as well. Patching.
Many parents find it really hard to fit their kids with patches, particularly if they're on the younger side. Their stronger eye is covered with the patch, which makes it harder for your child to see. It's a frustrating conundrum- your child needs to patch their eye to help the sight in their weaker eye, but this can only be done when their better eye is patched, thus restricting their vision. There are a few methods to encourage your child to wear their patch. With preschoolers, perhaps you can use a reward chart with stickers. Eye patch manufacturers sympathize with the challenge; patches are made in lots of kid-friendly colors and patterns. Take advantage of all the options and make it an activity by giving them the opportunity to choose their patch every day. With kids who are a little older, break down the importance of patching, and talk about it as an exercise to help their vision in the long term.
Patches are great and can be very helpful, but it depends on your child's assistance and your ability to remain focused on the long-term goal of restoring good vision in your child's weaker eye.
