Concerned About Son's Lazy Eye

Posted by Sue on August 11, 1999 at 10:04:01
Hello,
My son is 10. He was diagnosed yesterday with lazy eye. The doctor said get him glasses to wear full time and come back in 6 months. The doctor used an extra strong eye dialation drop on my son too. This morning, about 17 hours later, his eyes are still dialated. Was that really nessary? Also, shouldn't I be doing something more for his lazy eye besides just putting glasses on him? Should I call and ask for more alternatives from this doctor? Thanks so much for any help, Sue

Posted by HFHS MD-JL on August 11, 1999 at 21:37:30
The strong dilating drop is necessary to determine the correct refraction.  In general lazy eyes need to be corrected before age 9 or 10 or the vision may not improve because the brain has been trained already.  If your child wears the glasses the vision may improve just with glasses.  I would typically want to see your child back before 6 month to see if the vision improved but I am not sure of your childs exact problem.  If in doubt see a pediatric ophthalmologist for an additional opinion.  Good luck.
This information was provided for educational purposes only.
HFHS MD-JL

Posted by Sue on August 12, 1999 at 15:15:50
Hello Again,
    I had read that glasses could never actually CORRECT lazy eye. I read that therapy can only correct. Also, his eyes have never crossed. We are concerned that maybe so-called therapy could be only another way for some folks to grab our hard earned dollars. Please, your opinion about glasses and therapy. Thanks Again....

Posted by HFHS MD-JL on August 12, 1999 at 19:22:56
Certainly glasses alone can correct some types of lazy eye.  Many times this needs to be used along with patching therapy and even eye muscle surgery (when the eyes are also crossed).  Treatment of these conditions are best done in the hands of a pediatric ophthalmologist or those with extensive experience in dealing with kids.
This info was provided for educational purposes only.
HFHS MD-JL