What Are Myopia, Hyperopia and Astigmatism?
What is myopia?
A person with myopia usually sees near objects more clearly and distant objects more blurred. Depending on the degree, it can become difficult to make out distant text, traffic signs or faces. The image falls in front of the retina's center of vision, and vision becomes blurred.
What is hyperopia?
Hyperopia can cause difficulty especially with near vision. Young people can compensate for this for a while with the eye's focusing power; however, eye strain and headaches may occur. The image falls behind the retina.
What is astigmatism?
In astigmatism, light cannot be focused evenly onto a single point inside the eye. Blurring or shadowing can occur in both distant and near images.
How is it corrected?
Glasses and contact lenses are the most commonly used options. In suitable patients, laser or other surgical methods may also be considered.
When is an eye examination needed?
If you have a vision complaint that is new, ongoing or affecting your daily life, it is advisable to have it evaluated with an eye examination. Symptoms such as sudden loss of vision, severe eye pain or a curtain/shadow in your visual field should be evaluated without delay.
Information note: This article has been prepared for general information purposes. Decisions on diagnosis and treatment should be made after evaluating the person's eye examination and medical condition.
