What Are Refractive Errors?
Refractive errors occur when the shape of the eye prevents light from focusing properly on the retina. This can cause blurry vision at near distances, far distances, or both. Fortunately, most refractive errors can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery.
👓 Myopia (Nearsightedness)
What is it?
Distant objects appear blurry while nearby objects remain clear.
Common Symptoms
- Difficulty seeing road signs
- Squinting to see far away
- Eye strain
Treatment
- Glasses
- Contact lenses
- LASIK or other refractive procedures
📖 Hyperopia (Farsightedness)
What is it?
Nearby objects appear blurry while distant objects may be easier to see.
Common Symptoms
- Trouble reading
- Eye fatigue
- Headaches after close work
Treatment
- Glasses
- Contact lenses
- Refractive surgery
🎯 Astigmatism
What is it?
Blurred or distorted vision caused by an irregular curvature of the cornea or lens.
Common Symptoms
- Blurry vision at all distances
- Eye strain
- Headaches
Treatment
- Glasses
- Contact lenses
- Refractive surgery
📚 Presbyopia
What is it?
A normal age-related change that affects the ability to focus on near objects, usually beginning after age 40.
Common Symptoms
- Holding reading material farther away
- Difficulty reading small print
- Eye fatigue
Treatment
- Reading glasses
- Bifocals or progressive lenses
- Multifocal contact lenses
| Condition | Near Vision | Distance Vision |
|---|---|---|
| Myopia | Clear | Blurry |
| Hyperopia | Blurry | Usually Clear |
| Astigmatism | Blurry | Blurry |
| Presbyopia | Blurry | Usually Clear |
Schedule an Eye Exam If You Notice:
- Blurry vision
- Frequent headaches
- Squinting
- Difficulty reading
- Trouble driving at night
- Increased eye strain
Questions or concerns? Please call our office to schedule an appointment.