Without glasses or contact lenses, nearsighted individuals typically have problems seeing well at a distance. The nearsighted eye is usually longer than a normal eye and its cornea may also be steeper. Therefore, when light passes through the cornea and lens, it is focused in front of the retina. This will make distant images appear blurred. There are several refractive surgery solutions available to correct nearly all levels of nearsightedness. The eye is an extremely complex structure, and it’s interesting to note that a 1mm increase in the length of the eye creates a significant amount of myopia.
Hyperopia (Farsightedness)
Farsighted individuals typically develop problems reading up close before the age of 40. The farsighted eye is usually slightly shorter than a normal eye and may have a flatter cornea. Consequently, the light from distant objects is unfocused when it reaches the retina and would actually focus behind the retina if the retina were transparent. Near objects require even greater focusing power to be seen clearly and therefore blur more easily. Glasses and contact lenses are the main means of treating hyperopia, and LASIK, refractive lens exchange (RLE or PreLex), and implantable lenses (ICL) are surgical means to address farsightedness.
Astigmatism
Astigmatism occurs when there is an unequal curve on the surface of the eye. This phenomena can cause vision to be blurry at near and far distances. Astigmatism can be a very serious problem and should be addressed. There are various methods in correcting this disorder. The most common method is through the use of glasses and contacts. In some cases, refractive surgery is used to correct astigmatism. If you are suffering from blurry vision or eye fatigue you may have astigmatism. If you can’t see clearly you may be suffering from astigmatism. The only way to detect this condition is through a thorough eye exam.
