Faq - Refractive error

What is refractive error?

A refractive error is a very common eye condition that can cause blurred or reduced vision. It occurs when the eye fails to focus precisely and accurately images from the outside world on to the retina.

What are the different types of refractive errors?

There are different types of refractive errors which are classified broadly as

Myopia

Also known as near sightendness where a person has difficulty in seeing clearly objects at distance

Hyperopia

Also known as far sightedness where a person has difficulty in seeing close objects clearly

Astigmatism

This is a condition where there is distorted vision resulting from an irregularly curved cornea

Presbyopia

This is not a refractive error. It is due to difficulty in reading or seeing at arm’s length usually starting after 40 years of age due to the loss of the ability of accomodation of the crystalline natural lens

Can refractive errors be prevented?

No, Refractive errors cannot be prevented. They can be diagnosed and corrected with an eye examination.

How are refractive errors treated?

Refrative errors can be treated with

• - Corrective glasses
• - Contact lenses
• - Refractive surgery
• - Surgical procedures like Implantable Collamer Lenses and Clear Lens Extraction in patients with very high refractive errors which may not be correctable by glasses/ contact lenses or refractive surgery