What does Refraction mean in eye examination?

There are a few categories of refraction: shortsightedness (myopia), longsightedness (hyperopia), astigmatism, and presbyopia.

They are refractive errors of the eye that cause blurry vision due to abnormalities in the shape of the eye. Consequently, they affect vision at different distances.

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  illustrations of different Refractive Errors

Myopia 

• Also known as shortsightedness/nearsightedness/ 近视.

• Caused by an eyeball that is too long or a cornea that is too steep.

• Light focuses in front of the retina, making distant objects appear blurry.

• Can be corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses, or surgery.

Hyperopia

• Also known as longsightedness/farsightedness/ 远视.

• Caused by an eyeball that is too short or a cornea that is too flat.

• Light focuses behind of the retina, making distant objects appear blurry.

• Can be corrected with eyeglasses or contact lenses.

  
  

Astigmatism

• Also known as 散光.

• Caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens.

• Can cause blurry or distorted vision at all distances.

• Can be corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses, or surgery.

Presbyopia

• Commonly known as 老花.

• An age-related condition that affects the eye's ability to focus on close objects.

• Typically noticeable in individuals over 40.

• It occurs as the ciliary muscle of the eye loses its flexibility to accommodate to bring near objects into focus.

• Hence common symptoms such as difficulty reading small print at near and needing to hold books or phones farther away.

Do you know what type of refractive error you may have? Schedule an appointment with us today for a comprehensive eye examination to find out.

You can reach us at 8826 1212.