A refractive error is a common vision problem that occurs when the eye cannot focus light properly onto the retina, resulting in blurred vision. This happens because of the shape of the eye or the curvature of the cornea or lens, causing light to focus in front of, behind, or unevenly on the retina. Common types include short-sightedness (myopia), long-sightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism, and they are usually corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery.
Myopia, also known as short-sightedness, is a common vision condition where distant objects appear blurry while near objects remain clear. It occurs when the eye is slightly longer than normal or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. Myopia often begins in childhood or teenage years and can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive treatments to improve distance vision.
Hyperopia, also known as long-sightedness, is a vision condition where distant objects may be seen more clearly than close ones, especially in younger people. It occurs when the eye is slightly shorter than normal or the cornea is too flat, causing light to focus behind the retina instead of directly on it. This can lead to difficulty with near tasks, eye strain, headaches, or blurred vision, and it is commonly corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive treatment.
Astigmatism is a common vision condition caused by an irregular shape of the cornea or lens, where the eye is more curved in one direction than the other. This uneven shape prevents light from focusing evenly on the retina, leading to blurred or distorted vision at both near and far distances. Astigmatism often occurs alongside myopia or hyperopia and can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive treatments.
Refractive errors can be corrected in several ways, depending on your vision needs, lifestyle, and eye health. Conservative options include prescription glasses and contact lenses, which are safe, effective, and easily adjustable as vision changes.
For suitable candidates seeking greater independence from glasses, refractive surgery may be an option. This includes laser vision correction (such as LASIK or PRK), which reshapes the cornea to improve focus, and implantable collamer lenses (ICL), where a lens is placed inside the eye without removing the natural lens. For patients above the age of 50 years, refractive lens exchange (RLE) is also a viable option. An eye care professional can help determine the most appropriate solution through a comprehensive assessment.
Visiting your optometrist regularly is important for maintaining clear, comfortable vision and overall eye health. An optometrist can accurately diagnose refractive errors and prescribe the right glasses or contact lenses to correct vision and reduce eye strain. Regular eye checks also help detect changes early and ensure your prescription remains suitable for your daily needs.