Eye examination for amblyopia in children

Amblyopia is a common vision impairment in children, affecting about 4 to 6% of children in Germany. The vision weakness develops in most children between the third and fourth month of life. Pediatric and ophthalmology practices offer amblyopia screening as early detection. Since this is not part of the statutory health insurance benefits, we provide you with information on all important questions.

In amblyopia, only one eye sees clearly, causing two different images to be sent to the brain. The brain cannot merge these two images into a correct visual impression. As a result, the normal-seeing eye tries to compensate for the weakness of the other eye. The weaker eye is neglected, which worsens the vision impairment. If the vision impairment is not treated, it usually cannot be corrected in adulthood.

The consequence of amblyopia is that depth perception is limited because both eyes are needed for this. Those affected cannot accurately judge the depth and distances of objects. For example, they may have problems riding a bike or catching a ball.

There are various signs that may indicate amblyopia. For instance, if a child has to hold toys very close to their eye to see them or frequently complains of headaches and light sensitivity, this can suggest a vision problem. Or if the child noticeably tilts their head to one side to recognize objects. Squinting is also an indication of amblyopia. If you notice these signs in your child, it is best to consult an eye specialist.

Yes, amblyopia can be inherited. If amblyopia already occurs in your family, it is best to inform your pediatrician about it.
 

During an amblyopia screening, the child sits on the lap of their mother or father and looks into a camera for a few seconds. This camera, using computer software, can detect organic as well as optical errors in the eyes and also measures how well both eyes work together.

Amblyopia screenings are usually performed by ophthalmologists. In some pediatric practices, amblyopia screening is offered in addition to routine U-examinations (child health check-ups).

If amblyopia is suspected, the pediatrician will refer your child to an eye specialist for further examination.

As part of the "Starke Kids" health program, your child can receive two amblyopia screenings free of charge at participating pediatric practices—once between the 5th and 14th month of life and again between the 20th and 50th month of life.

If you want additional preventive care for your little ones, the family supplementary insurance might be just right for you. This insurance covers amblyopia screening under the plans "SBK Familie extra" and "SBK Familie extra plus" of the family supplementary insurance.

Amblyopia can be well treated during childhood. The standard treatment is called occlusion therapy. In this treatment, the better-seeing eye is covered with an eye patch for a few hours each day. This trains the weaker eye because the better eye can no longer compensate for its weakness. For children who wear glasses, the patch can be placed either over or under the glasses.

In addition to occlusion therapy, the online vision training program Caterna can be used for children. The exercises can be done at home on a computer. Caterna is a medical device and must be prescribed by a participating ophthalmologist. We cover the costs for the online vision training Caterna if the conditions for it are met. More information can be found on the page Vision Training for Amblyopia.