Amblyopia: Wearing an eye patch
What an eye patch does for amblyopia
Treatment with an eye patch corrects amblyopia by training the brain to use visual signals from the eye with weaker vision. This encourages the brain to process what that eye sees. It helps build a stronger connection between the brain and the weak eye and allows vision to develop normally in that eye.
If your child must wear a patch, the doctor will tell you when and for how long. Stay on the schedule. Try to prevent your child from removing the patch or looking around it. Wearing a patch can be difficult and uncomfortable, especially for young children. They may be confused or afraid about wearing the patch, and other children may tease them.
By providing direction, motivation, support, and reassurance, you can help your child comply with the patching treatment so that he or she can develop the best vision possible. Do this by explaining to your child why the treatment is needed and giving him or her clear guidelines on when and how long he or she must wear the patch. Encourage the support of family, friends, teachers, and classmates.
Test Your Knowledge
You can help your child wear the eye patch by:
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Why it is important to follow the doctor's instructions closely
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| Author: | Robin Parks, MS | Last Updated: July 17, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Christopher J. Rudnisky, MD, FRCSC - Ophthalmology | |
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