Refractive Errors

Some people can see correctly without the need for glasses or contacts. Others need corrective lenses. These people have refractive errors. A refractive error is when the shape of the eye doesn't bend light correctly, resulting in vision problems. There are a few different types of refractive errors.

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Myopia

Myopia is also known as nearsightedness. If you can see things that are close clearly, but objects in the distance are blurry, you have myopia. This condition is often inherited and it begins during childhood. The condition often worsens during the teen years because the body grows quickly during this time.

Hyperopia

Hyperopia is also known as farsightedness. If you can see objects in the distance easily, but nearby objects are blurry, you may have this condition. Like myopia, hyperopia is inherited. Children who have this condition usually outgrow it, or the severity of the condition lessens as they age. In more advanced cases of hyperopia, your vision will be blurry at all distances.

Astigmatism

A normal cornea is smooth and is equally curved in all directions. This allows the light focused by the cornea to land directly on the retina. If you have astigmatism, the front of the cornea is curved more in one direction than the other. This can make your vision distorted and wavy. It can also cause blurry vision at all distances.

Presbyopia

After the age of 40, the lens of your eye becomes rigid and doesn't flex easily. This makes it difficult for you to see up close. It is called presbyopia. Most people with this condition require reading glasses to see objects up close. Some people who develop presbyopia also have one of the other refractive errors.

How Are Refractive Errors Treated?

If you have a refractive error, it can easily be treated with eyeglasses or contact lenses. If you don't want to rely on glasses or contacts to see correctly, Lasik surgery may also be an option. This is where an ophthalmologist would use a laser to correct your refractive error. This laser eye surgery makes glasses and contacts unnecessary for distance.If you believe that you have one of the refractive errors listed above, schedule an appointment with TLC of Coral Gables in Miami.