Nearsightedness, AKA myopia, and farsightedness are both defined as refractive conditions that require corrective eyewear to see clearly. But they’re not the same. Our eye doctor in Lewis Center, Westerville, and Johnstown explains.
What’s a refractive condition?
A refractive condition means that there’s a problem related to how light is focused when it enters your eye. When the visual system is working properly, light enters the eye and naturally focuses on the retina, which is the inner lining of the eye that’s responsible for detecting light. Then, the brain receives a sharp view of what your eyes are seeing. When the process works right, you don’t need glasses to see. But when the light doesn’t focus correctly, landing before or behind the retina, you have a refractive condition.
What is nearsightedness?
Myopia means that the light rays that hit your eye don’t focus directly on the retina. Instead, they end up at a point in front of the retina. This occurs because your eyeball is elongated or your lens is too curved. As a result, you’ll be able to see close objects clearly but things in the distance are blurry.
What is farsightedness?
Farsightedness, or hyperopia, is the exact opposite of nearsightedness. It occurs because the eyeball is too short, the cornea is too flat, or the curvature of the lens can’t focus light properly. But with farsightedness, the light focuses at a point beyond the retina, causing blurred vision up close. You’ll be able to see distant objects clearly, but near tasks such as reading will be difficult.
Vision correction for nearsightedness and farsightedness
Whether you have myopia or hyperopia, you’re in luck – both of these conditions can be improved effectively with corrective eyewear, such as prescription glasses or contact lenses. LASIK laser refractive surgery is another possible option. To get your vision condition diagnosed precisely and benefit from the best vision solution for your eyes and your lifestyle, schedule an eye exam with our eye doctor in Lewis Center, Westerville, and Johnstown, Ohio. Already have an up-to-date prescription? Check out our stylish optical collection for a new pair of frames or quality contact lenses!
At Professional VisionCare, we put your family's needs first. Talk to us about how we can help you maintain healthy vision. Call us today: 614-898-9989 or book an appointment online to see one of our Lewis Center eye doctors.
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