Understanding Refractive Errors: Myopia, Hyperopia & Astigmatism

Having clear vision depends on how well your eyes can focus light onto the retina. Refractive errors occur when the shape of your eye prevents light from focusing correctly. This results in blurry vision, which can be easily corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or surgery. Let’s take a look at the four most common refractive errors: myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism.

What is Myopia (Nearsightedness)?

Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, occurs when you can see objects close to you clearly but struggle to focus on distant objects. This happens because light entering your eye focuses in front of the retina instead of directly on it.

Signs of Myopia

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  • Difficulty seeing distant objects clearly (e.g., the blackboard or road signs).
  • Squinting to see better.
  • Frequent headaches due to eye strain.

Correction for Myopia

  • Myopia is corrected using minus power lenses (concave lenses). These lenses help focus light directly on the retina, improving distance vision.

What is Hyperopia (Farsightedness)?

Hyperopia, or farsightedness, is the opposite of myopia. People with hyperopia can see distant objects clearly but may struggle with close-up tasks like reading. In this condition, light focuses behind the retina.

Signs of Hyperopia

  • Difficulty focusing on nearby objects, such as books or screens.
  • Eye strain, especially when reading or doing detailed work.
  • Blurry vision when looking at objects up close.

Correction for Hyperopia

  • Hyperopia is corrected using plus power lenses (convex lenses). These lenses adjust the focus so that light lands on the retina, allowing for clear near vision.

What is Astigmatism?

  • Astigmatism is corrected with cylindrical lenses, which have different powers in different areas to correct the uneven curvature of the eye.

Why Should You Get Your Eyes Checked for Refractive Errors?

If you experience any signs of blurry vision, eye strain, or difficulty seeing objects clearly, it’s important to get a comprehensive eye examination. Regular eye check-ups ensure that any vision problems are detected early and corrected effectively.

Why Choose Shanthi Nethralaya for Your Routine Eye Examination?

At Shanthi Nethralaya, we believe in providing personalized care, one patient at a time. Every patient undergoes a thorough examination by both a highly trained optometrist (technician) and an ophthalmologist (eye doctor). Our team ensures that no detail is missed in your diagnosis and treatment.

We offer comprehensive eye care services with a focus on precise diagnosis and personalized treatment for refractive errors. Our experienced team uses the latest technology to ensure accurate prescriptions for glasses or contact lenses. Whether you need a routine eye exam or specialized care, we are here to provide the highest standard of eye care.

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