Changes to your ocular structures and their functions may cause problems with the even distribution of light in your eyes, leading to refractive errors. They are classified into four major types which your expert eye care clinic can identify through a comprehensive eye test. Let Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry discuss each one in detail and our recommended management.
Astigmatism
Astigmatism happens when your lens (lenticular astigmatism) or cornea (corneal astigmatism) develops irregular curvatures or uneven surfaces. They may disrupt the light-focusing process on your retina, resulting in blurred or distorted eyesight when looking at distant or nearby objects. You may also experience difficulties carrying out your daily chores. To help improve your vision, we may recommend using toric eyeglasses or contact lenses. Their sliced donut design compensates for the structural changes, helping you see better at different refractive levels.
Nearsightedness (Myopia)
Myopia develops when your eyes are longer than the ideal or your cornea is curvier than the usual. They may cause light rays to incorrectly settle in front of your retina, leading to difficulties recognizing persons or objects from afar. That said, your close-range eyesight remains clear. We may recommend wearing eyeglasses or contact lenses, as well as performing LASIK eye surgery for your improved distant vision.
Farsightedness (Hyperopia)
You may have hyperopia when your eyes are too short or your cornea is too flat, causing light rays to incorrectly focus behind the retina. You may experience problems seeing up-close objects clearly while your distant viewing ease stays intact. Vision correction devices and refractive surgeries may help improve your close-range vision.
Presbyopia
Presbyopia is an age-related refractive error that usually manifests upon reaching your 40s. Over time, your ocular muscles and natural lenses may start to lose their elasticity, causing problems with the light-bending process in your eyes. You may experience visual impairment, especially when doing close-range tasks. This is why you may often notice adults at this age holding their reading materials at arm’s length when looking at them. Your reliable optometrist may prescribe using bifocals, progressives, or even multifocals to help you see better. They contain different lens prescriptions in a single lens for your improved visual acuity when looking at varying distances.
For more information about the major refractive errors, call us at (703) 660-9494 for Alexandria, (703) 413-1400 if you are in Crystal City, (703) 522-7676 if you are in Clarendon, (703) 573-1200 for Falls Church, and (703) 467-9080 for Reston. You may also complete our form to schedule an appointment. We serve Alexandria and nearby VA areas.
