Refractive errors

What are Refractive errors

Refractive errors are abnormalities in the optical system of the eye that prevent the formation of a sharp image at different distances. This is the most common and best known eye condition and includes several types:

Spherical aberrations

Spherical aberrations occur when the eye’s optical power is too high or too low to properly project light onto the retina, the light-sensitive ‘screen’ at the back of the eye. Examples of this are:

Myopia

Myopia is better known as near sightedness. Near sightedness causes images that a person sees in the distance to be blurry, while images close to the eye are sharp.

Hypermetropia

Hyperopia, commonly known as farsightedness, results in clear vision of distant objects but blurriness when viewing nearby objects.

Accepting the realization that vision is affected by a refractive error can be challenging. However, finding comfort in the shared experiences of others can offer support. Many individuals, whether recently diagnosed or having lived with a refractive error for years, face similar circumstances.

If one experiences visual impairment as a result of refractive errors, then there are devices available that help with the tasks one has difficulty with. These aids can provide support with tasks that require vision and can help you continue to lead a full and independent life.

Cylindrical deviations

Cylindrical abnormalities occur when the optical power of the eye is too strong or too weak. Examples of this are:

Astigmatism

Astigmatism is caused by an irregularly shaped cornea (the cornea is responsible for the projection of images onto the retina). In an eye with astigmatism, some parts of the image are projected behind (or in front of) the retina, while other parts of the image end up on the retina. The result is that the image is not completely sharp.

Presbyopia

Presbyopia is also called age-related visual impairment. With age, the flexibility of the eye lens decreases, resulting in the eye being unable to focus properly on objects close to the eye.

Refractive errors affect a large part of society – many people are affected by this to a greater or lesser extent.

What are the symptoms of refractive errors?

The symptoms of refractive errors vary per individual:

• headache
• fatigue
• tense eyes
• squinting of the eyes
• blurred or distorted images, either near or at a distance

What can one expect from refractive errors?

Treatment for refractive errors varies depending on the severity and degree of the condition. Corrective measures such as glasses and lenses are frequently employed to alleviate blurred vision resulting from refractive errors. In certain instances, surgery may offer a solution. It’s advisable to discuss the available options with your doctor or specialist.

More information about refractive errors

A wealth of information exists regarding refractive errors. This information aims to provide insights into the key aspects of this eye condition and is not meant to substitute the guidance provided by a doctor or eye specialist.