Vision Problems

Myopia (Nearsightedness)

Nearsightedness, known as myopia, makes it difficult to see objects far away and is caused when images are focused in front of the retina. This typically occurs when the eyeball becomes longer, which is common in children who are growing quickly. The changes may be frequent, and glasses or contact lenses may need to be updated often.

Hyperopia (Farsightedness)

Farsightedness, known as hyperopia, makes it difficult to see objects that are close. It is caused when the light entering the eye is focused behind the retina instead of on it. This can be a result of the eyeball being too short. Many times, farsightedness occurs at birth. Some children outgrow the condition without experiencing many symptoms.

Astigmatism

Astigmatism is one of the most common vision conditions, and most people have some form of astigmatism. It can be caused by an irregular-shaped cornea or an abnormal curvature of the lens.

Minor astigmatism may not affect your vision or require treatment. However, many cases cause blurred or distorted vision, which can result in pain and headaches. Typically, astigmatism is present with nearsightedness and farsightedness.

During your examination, we test for astigmatism using a phoropter and retinoscope, which both measure refraction.

Depending on the severity of the astigmatism, we can provide eyeglasses or contact lenses to help correct your condition. There is also a wide range of other solutions that may also work for you. We would be happy to discuss your options with you at your appointment.

Presbyopia

Presbyopia is the gradual loss of your eyes’ ability to focus on nearby objects. It’s a natural, often annoying part of aging. Presbyopia usually becomes noticeable in your early to mid-40s and continues to worsen until around age 65.

You may become aware of presbyopia when you start holding books and newspapers at arm’s length to be able to read them. A basic eye exam can confirm presbyopia. You can correct the condition with eyeglasses or contact lenses. You might also consider surgery.

Symptoms

Presbyopia develops gradually. You may first notice these signs and symptoms after age 40:

• A tendency to hold reading material farther away to make the letters clearer
• Blurred vision at normal reading distance
• Eyestrain or headaches after reading or doing close-up work

You may notice these symptoms are worse if you are tired or are in an area with dim lighting.

When to see a doctor

See an eye doctor if blurry close-up vision is keeping you from reading, doing close-up work or enjoying other normal activities. He or she can determine whether you have presbyopia and advise you of your options.

Seek immediate medical care if you:

• Have a sudden loss of vision in one eye with or without eye pain
• Experience sudden hazy or blurred vision
• See flashes of light, black spots or halos around lights
• Have double vision

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