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Vision support

Prism lenses: help for double vision & eye alignment

If your child sees double or their eyes don’t quite line up, prism lenses may be part of the answer. Here’s what they are, when they’re prescribed, and how they help — in plain language.

The basics

What parents should know about prism

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What prism lenses are

A prism is a wedge built into the lens that bends light before it reaches the eye. Instead of changing focus like a normal prescription, it shifts where the image lands so both eyes can work together.

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Why they’re prescribed

Eye doctors add prism when the eyes don’t align — issues like strabismus or convergence problems — so the brain gets one clear, merged image instead of two competing ones.

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How they help

By realigning the two images, prism reduces double vision, eye strain, and head-tilting, and supports healthy binocular vision as kids read, learn, and play.

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Signs to watch for

Frequent double vision, covering or closing one eye, head-tilting, squinting, or tired eyes during reading are all worth an eye exam.

Parent pro tip: prism is always prescribed and measured by an eye-care professional — it isn’t an off-the-shelf add-on. Bring any double-vision concerns to your child’s exam.

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