There are four main refractive errors, and they all affect the way we see:
- Myopia (nearsightedness): blurry distance vision.
- Hyperopia (farsightedness): blurry near vision.
- Astigmatism: distorted vision at all distances.
- Presbyopia: reading difficulty that usually appears around age 40.
In simple words, a refractive error happens because the shape of your eye does not bend light properly, affecting the refractive mechanism. Refractive errors are one of the leading causes of vision problems worldwide.
Myopia and hyperopia can be inherited and are typically detected in childhood. You can also read more about presbyopia in our dedicated article.
People with astigmatism have an irregular cornea, which causes light rays to be projected at several focal points. As a result, their vision is more complex, since they experience distorted images both near and far.
What does visual acuity mean?
- 20/20: normal vision.
- 20/200 or worse: considered legally blind.
Your brain plays a key role in vision. The eyes do one part of the job and the brain does the other. In fact, vision accounts for about two-thirds of the electrical activity of the brain.
Symptoms that may indicate a refractive error
- Frequent headaches
- Difficulty reading
- Trouble recognizing faces
- Tired eyes
- Squinting to focus
- Double or hazy vision
- Seeing glare around lights
If you suffer from migraines, vision problems can make them worse.
Vision and learning
As stated in the Journal of Behavioral Optometry, 80% of what we learn is obtained through the visual processing of information.
Our vision is the primary sense by which we learn. It is easy to understand how poor vision can dramatically interfere with a child’s ability to learn and interact, causing learning-related vision problems.
According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), infants should have their first comprehensive eye exam at 6 months of age, then another at 2 to 3 years, and another right before they enter kindergarten or first grade.
How are refractive errors corrected?
A proper comprehensive eye evaluation by an optometrist or ophthalmologist should detect any problems in your vision. The specialist will measure your visual acuity, refract your eyes to identify the refractive error, and try lenses to clear your vision. Depending on the case, correction options include eyeglasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery such as LASIK, PRK, and SMILE.
Your doctor should take the time to explain how your eye works and clear up any doubts. They should also show you how to read your prescription and let you know what to expect when wearing eyeglasses for the first time or changing your prescription.
If you are having vision problems, do not wait. At Dr. Reichmann’s clinic in Roatan we perform complete eye exams to detect and correct your refractive error as part of our eye care services. Book your appointment today and enjoy clear vision again.