Refractive Errors
A refractive error occurs when the eye cannot focus light correctly on the retina, causing blurred vision.
It is the most common cause of vision problems and can usually be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or laser treatments.
Types of Refractive Errors
1. Myopia (Nearsightedness)
Objects near appear clear
Objects far appear blurry
Caused by a longer eyeball or a steep cornea
Symptoms: Difficulty seeing distant objects, squinting, headaches.
2. Hyperopia (Farsightedness)
Objects far may be clearer than near
Eye has to work harder to focus
Caused by a shorter eyeball or flat cornea
Symptoms: Eyestrain, headaches, blurred near vision.
3. Astigmatism
Vision is blurred at all distances
Caused by an irregularly curved cornea or lens
Symptoms: Distortion, shadowed vision, eye fatigue.
4. Presbyopia
Age-related difficulty focusing on near objects
Usually begins after age 40
Happens because the natural lens becomes less flexible
Symptoms: Difficulty reading small print, need to hold books farther away.
Symptoms of Refractive Errors
- Blurred or double vision
- Eye strain or tired eyes
- Headaches
- Difficulty reading or driving
- Squinting
- Poor night vision
If you experience these symptoms, an eye check-up is recommended.
If you experience these symptoms, an eye check-up is recommended.
A complete eye examination includes:
- Vision testing
- Refraction test (to determine the power of glasses)
- Eye health evaluation
This helps determine the exact prescription needed.
Treatment Options
Glasses
- • Safest and most common method
- • Provide clear and comfortable vision
Contact Lenses
- • Provide a wider field of view
- • Available as soft, rigid, daily, monthly, toric, multifocal, etc. (Not ideal for patients with allergies, dryness or poor hygiene habits)
Laser Vision Correction (LASIK/PRK/SMILE)
- • Permanent correction of myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism
- • Suitable after age 18 with stable power
- • Requires healthy cornea and good tear film
Refractive Lens Exchange / IOL Implant
- • Especially for high powers or patients above 40 with presbyopia
- • The natural lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens
Your doctor will recommend the best option depending on your age, eye health, lifestyle, and refractive power.