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Patches: Not Just For Pirates

Amblyopia, also called lazy eye, is commonly seen in children. It forms when the brain switches off or suppresses sight in one eye. This might occur if your child struggles to see properly through one eye because of issues with distance vision, and in some cases, astigmatism. In most cases, eye patches are the central and most productive part of treating lazy eyes. Our patients are told to apply their patch for several hours each day, and often the patients will need eye glasses as well. Patching.

Many moms and dads find it extremely challenging to fit their kids with eye patches, particularly if they're preschool-aged. Their more active eye is patched, which restricts their ability to see. It's a frustrating conundrum- your child must patch their eye to better the sight in their weaker eye, but can't happen successfully unless their better eye is patched, thus restricting their sight. There are a few methods to encourage your child to wear their patch. Using a reward system with stickers can be successful for some kids. Patch manufacturers are aware of the issue; patches are available in loads of kid-friendly colors and patterns. Involve your child in the process and make it an activity by giving them the opportunity to choose a new and fun patch every day. Kids who are a little older will be able to intellectualize the patching process, so it's helpful to have a little session where you talk about it.

A successful result needs you to keep committed to the goal of improving your child's vision and ultimately, their quality of life.