Refractive Error
What is a refractive error?
Refractive errors are vision problems that occur when the shape of the eye keeps you from focusing well. Causes of refractive errors include: The cause could be the length of the eyeball (too long or short), changes in the shape of the cornea, or aging of the lens.
- Myopia (nearsightedness)
- Hyperopia (farsightedness)
- Presbyopia (aging of the natural lens - develops into a cataract)
- Astigmatism (abnormal curvature of the cornea)
what are the symptoms of a refractive error?
Symptoms of a refractive error generally present as blurred vision, difficulty seeing up close or reading, or crossing of the eyes in children.
How do we treat refractive errors?
Refractive errors are treated most commonly by using corrective lenses (prescription glasses or contact lenses, or over-the-counter reading glasses). Depending on the reason for your refractive error, refractive surgery (such as cataract surgery, LASIK or PRK) may also be an option if you are a good candidate.