Understanding Refractive Errors: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment.

Understanding Refractive Errors: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Have you ever experienced blurry vision, difficulty reading, or eyestrain? Chances are, you may have a refractive error. A refractive error is a common eye condition that affects the way your eyes bend and focus light, causing blurred vision. Fortunately, refractive errors can be corrected with the right diagnosis, treatment, and guidance from a qualified eye specialist.

Causes

Refractive errors are caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, aging, eye injuries, and chronic medical conditions. In some cases, refractive errors can be the result of an irregularly shaped cornea, which is responsible for focusing light onto the retina. Other times, the eye’s lens may not be able to focus light properly due to natural aging or injury.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of refractive errors include blurry vision, eye fatigue or strain, difficulty seeing at night or in low light, and eye discomfort or irritation. These symptoms can be mild or severe and can vary depending on the type of refractive error you have. There are four main types of refractive errors: myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), astigmatism, and presbyopia.

Treatment

Thankfully, refractive errors can be easily diagnosed and treated by a qualified eye specialist like Dr. Dolan from 2020 Vision in Rochester Hills, MI. The first step in treating a refractive error is getting a comprehensive eye exam to determine the type and severity of the problem. Once the diagnosis is made, there are several effective treatment options available, including prescription eyeglasses, contact lenses, LASIK surgery, and other surgical procedures.

Prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses are the most common forms of treatment for refractive errors. They work by bending light as it enters your eyes, compensating for any abnormalities in your cornea or lens. LASIK surgery is a popular procedure for correcting refractive errors, particularly for those with myopia or astigmatism. This procedure involves reshaping the cornea using a laser, allowing light to focus more accurately onto the retina.

In conclusion, if you suspect you may have a refractive error, it is important to seek the advice and treatment of a qualified eye specialist like Dr. Dolan from 2020 Vision in Rochester Hills, MI. With proper diagnosis, treatment, and guidance, you can enjoy clear vision and improved eye health. To schedule an appointment, call 248-375-0040 today.