Refractive errors

Refractive errors are vision problems that prevent seeing clearly. They occur due to the eye’s shape that hinders light from focusing correctly on the retina (the light-sensitive tissue later in the back of the eye).

Refractive errors are the most common vision problem, but most people with refractive errors do not know their vision could be better. This makes regular eye exams important. If you have a refractive error, your optician may recommend contact lenses or eyeglasses to improve your vision.

Types of refractive errors

Four common types of refractive errors affect people. They include:

• Myopia or nearsightedness – makes distant objects look blurry
• Hyperopia or farsightedness – makes nearby objects look blurry
• Astigmatism – makes nearby and far objects look distorted or blurry
• Presbyopia – makes it difficult for older and middle-aged adults to see things close-up

Symptoms of refractive errors

Blurry vision is the most common symptom, but other symptoms are:

• Headaches
• Double vision
• Squinting
• Eye strain (when your eyes feel sore or tired)
• Seeing a halo or glare around bright lights
• Trouble focusing when looking at a computer or reading

Some people may not notice refractive error symptoms, so ensure you visit your eye doctor for routine eye exams to ensure you are seeing clearly. You may need a new prescription if you wear contact lenses or glasses and still have the symptoms. Consult your eye doctor and get an eye examination if you have vision problems.

Can I have refractive errors?

Anyone can have a refractive error, but you have a higher risk if you have a family member that wears contact lenses or glasses.

Most refractive errors, like myopia, often start in childhood, while presbyopia is common in adults aged 45 and older. Speak to your doctor about your risk for refractive errors, and ask how often you should have your eyes checked.

Causes of refractive errors

• Problems with the shape of the cornea (the outer eye layer)
• Eyeball length (when the eyeball grows too short or too long)
• Ageing of the lens (the inner part of the eye that is clear and helps the eye focus)

How can my eye doctor diagnose refractive errors?

While conducting a comprehensive eye examination, your eye doctor can check for refractive errors. The examination is painless and simple. Your eye doctor will first ask you to read letters that are far away and close up, then give you some dilating eye drops to widen your pupil and check for other eye conditions.

Treatments for refractive errors

Your eye doctor can correct refractive errors with contact lenses, glasses, or surgery.

• Glasses

  Eyeglasses are the safest and simplest option for correcting refractive errors. The eye doctor will prescribe the right eyeglass lenses for clearer vision.

• Contacts

  Contact lenses sit on the eye surface and can correct refractive errors. The eye doctor will give you the right lenses and show you how to wear and clean them safely.

• Surgery

  Some types of surgery, such as laser eye surgery, can change the cornea’s shape to correct refractive errors. Your eye doctor can help determine if surgery is best for you.

Discuss your options with your eye doctor. These tips are also important.

• Encourage your family members to get an exam for refractive errors since they are genetic conditions.
• Visit your doctor for regular eye exams.
• Inform your doctor if your vision worsens or if you have a problem with your contact lenses or glasses.

You can visit Optimal Vision for your routine eye exam to check if you have any refractive errors. Contact us today at 020 7183 3725 for an appointment with our eye doctor for your eye exam.