Refractive errors are among the most prevalent vision issues worldwide, affecting millions of people’s ability to see clearly. These errors occur when the shape of the eye prevents light from focusing directly on the retina, leading to blurred vision.
There are four main types of refractive errors: myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia. Each type has its unique characteristics and treatment options.
1. Myopia (shortsightedness/近视)
Myopia, commonly known as shortsightedness, is where distant objects appear blurry while close objects can be seen clearly. This condition is typically caused by an eyeball that is too long or a cornea that is too curved, which causes light rays to focus in front of the retina.
Treatment for Myopia:
- Glasses and Contact Lenses: The most common treatment for myopia involves corrective lenses, such as glasses or contact lenses, which help refocus light directly onto the retina.
- Refractive Surgery: Procedures like LASIK or SMILE can permanently change the shape of the cornea, correcting the refractive error.
- Orthokeratology: This involves wearing specially designed rigid contact lenses overnight that reshape the cornea temporarily, allowing clear vision during the day.
2. Hyperopia (Longsightedness/远视)
Hyperopia, or longsightedness, is the opposite of myopia. People with hyperopia see distant objects more clearly than close ones. This condition occurs when the eyeball is too short, or the cornea has too little curvature, causing light to focus behind the retina.
Treatment for Hyperopia:
- Corrective Lenses: Glasses or contact lenses with convex lenses are used to adjust the focal point onto the retina.
- Refractive Surgery: Surgical options like LASIK or LASEK can adjust the cornea’s curvature to improve the focus of light onto the retina.
3. Astigmatism (散光)
Astigmatism is caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens, which can lead to distorted or blurred vision at all distances. It often occurs in combination with myopia or hyperopia.
Treatment for Astigmatism:
- Specialized Lenses: Both glasses and contact lenses for astigmatism include special cylindrical lenses that help correct the uneven curvature of the cornea or lens.
- Refractive Surgery: Laser surgery can reshape the cornea to eliminate the irregularities that cause astigmatism.
4. Presbyopia (老花)
Presbyopia is an age-related condition typically noticeable in one’s early to mid-40s. It occurs when the eye’s lens becomes less flexible, making it difficult to focus on close objects.
Treatment for Presbyopia:
- Reading Glasses: Simple over-the-counter reading glasses are often sufficient to correct presbyopia by helping focus on close objects.
- Bifocals and Progressive Lenses: These lenses offer multiple focal points to assist with seeing at varying distances.
- Surgical Options: Procedures such as monovision LASIK, and Presbyond can also correct presbyopia.
Conclusion
If you suspect you have a refractive error, a comprehensive eye examination is essential. An optometrist can diagnose the type of refractive error you have and discuss the best treatment options for your condition.
Early detection and treatment can prevent your vision from worsening and improve your quality of life. Taking good care of your eyes by scheduling regular check-ups is crucial.
If you need to book an appointment or have any concerns about your vision, do not hesitate to contact United Eyecare. Don’t wait until your vision issues become a serious problem—take action to protect your eyesight now!
United Optometrist @ Square 2 (Novena MRT🚇)
⏰ Mon-Sun 11.30am – 8pm
📲 WhatsApp: 98251377
📞 63976885
United Eyecare @ Boon Keng MRT🚇
⏰ Mon-Sun 10.30am – 7.30pm
📲 WhatsApp: 88070495
📞 62978298
