Frequently Asked Questions about Eye Care
What does it mean to be nearsighted?
If you are nearsighted you have a condition called myopia. Myopia is a vision disorder in which near objects appear clearly and distant objects do not come into focus properly.
What does it mean to be farsighted?
If you are farsighted you have a condition called hyperopia. Hyperopia is a vision disorder in which distant objects appear clearly and near objects do not come into focus properly.
What is astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a vision disorder that causes blurred vision at all distances. In severe cases it may cause distorted vision while mild cases may cause headaches, eye strain and fatigue. Most people have some degree of astigmatism.
Why can't I see up close anymore?
When people reach a certain age, approximately 40 – 45 years, they will experience some natural loss of near focus. This normal vision condition is called presbyopia. With aging, the eye eventually becomes unable to focus instantaneously from distant objects to close objects. Presbyopia is not a disease and it cannot be prevented. Common signs include the tendency to hold reading materials at arms length, blurred vision at normal reading distance, eye fatigue and headaches while doing close work. Presbyopia can be alleviated with prescription lenses for reading only or with multifocal lenses, like progressive lenses.
What is a cataract?
A cataract is the clouding of the lens within the human eye, which results in distorted and blurred vision. Cataracts are most often found in individuals over age 50, but are occasionally found in younger people. Years of
exposure to the sun's harmful rays are believed to contribute to the formation of cataracts.
What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is an eye disease in which the internal ocular pressure increases. This pressure, if left untreated, can damage the optic nerve and cause vision loss. Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness and it most often occurs in people over age 40. Glaucoma usually develops gradually and painlessly, without symptoms. It cannot be prevented, but when diagnosed and treated in its early stages it can be controlled.
What is age-related macular degeneration?
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) results from changes affecting the most precise portion of the retina, which is responsible for distinguishing visual detail. It is a leading cause of blindness. Central vision is the first to be lost with this disease. Low vision devices can be prescribed to maximize the remaining vision. Some studies suggest the progression of macular degeneration can be slowed with pharmacological-level doses of zinc, vitamins C and E and beta-carotene.