There are many types of vision problems that can affect your eyesight. The focus of this topic will be on the four most common causes of blurred vision.
Astigmatism
Astigmatism is an uneven or irregular curvature of the cornea and/or lens of the eye.
This results in blurred or distorted vision. Other symptoms of astigmatism include squinting, ghost images, headaches, and eye fatigue.
It is estimated that 33% of the US population has some degree of astigmatism. In minor cases, treatment may not be required but can be beneficial. Moderate to severe astigmatism can be treated with glasses, contacts, or possibly surgery.
Hyperopia (farsightedness)
Farsightedness, medically known as hyperopia, refers to vision that is better at distance than it is at close range. Farsightedness occurs when the eyeball is shorter than normal and/or the Image focuses behind the retina. This results in the light focusing behind the retina rather than directly on it.
If you are mildly farsighted and you are not having symptoms your eye care provider may not recommend correction. If you are moderately or severely farsighted you have several treatment options available including eyewear, contacts, and possibly surgery. It is estimated 5 to 10% of the U.S. population is far-sighted.
Myopia (nearsightedness)
Nearsightedness, medically known as myopia, refers to vision that is clear at close range but blurry at distance. It generally occurs because the eyeball is too long. The Image you are looking at is focused in front of the retina and therefore it is blurry. It is estimated 30 to 40% of the adult population in the U.S. is nearsighted. Eyewear, contacts, and possibly surgery are also treatment options for this condition.
Presbyopia
Aging eyes, medically known as presbyopia is a condition in which the lens of the human eye loses its flexibility making it difficult to focus on objects up close. Distance vision may or may not be affected by this process.
Presbyopia is an inevitable part of the aging process. It cannot be prevented by diet, lifestyle, or visual training. However, it is treatable with several types of corrective lenses. The lens types are progressives, bifocals, trifocals, and single vision. Multifocal contact lenses and monovision may be an option.
The Eye Specialists of Mid-Florida, P.A. can help you find what works best for you. We want you to see your clearest, so you can perform your best, no matter what you are doing. Call us today at 800-282-3937 or visit us online at EYESFL.COM and schedule your appointment or visit any of our optical departments.
BIO: Dr. Hafner is a board-certified optometrist who practices at the Auburndale location for Eye Specialists of Mid-Florida and is accepting new patients.