Amblyopia (lazy eye) treatment is a race against time. The effectiveness of treatment decreases as the age increases. If amblyopia is diagnosed early, the healthy eye is patched, and the brain receives the signal from the blurry-seeing eye. The goal is to gradually improve the vision of the affected eye.
There are two main treatment methods for amblyopia: Patching therapy and CAM (Cambridge Amblyopic Vision Stimulator) therapy.
The principle of treatment:
If amblyopia is diagnosed in a timely manner, the healthy eye is patched, and the brain is given the signal from the blurry-seeing eye. Gradual improvement in vision is targeted.
Patching therapy:
This treatment is applied at home. The healthy eye is patched for the period of time recommended by your ophthalmologist, providing stimulation to the lazy eye. During the patching period, the child should engage in vision-stimulating activities such as drawing, coloring, reading, or watching TV. It is ineffective to walk on the street or engage in physical activities while wearing the patch.
CAM (Cambridge Amblyopic Vision Stimulator):
This treatment is performed in the hospital. It is a method applied using a special device in approximately 10-session programs in the hospital. It does not require surgery or medication and typically lasts about 30 minutes per session, with proven effectiveness. It does not replace traditional patching or glasses treatment but serves as a reinforcing method used in conjunction with patching and glasses.