Refractive error is the most common vision problem.

This happens when light doesn’t focus correctly on the retina.

The most common types of refractive error are:

  • Myopia (nearsighted): You see near better than far

  • Hyperopia (farsighted): You see far better than near

  • Astigmatism: Your eye is more oval shaped than circular and you experience increased halos around lights. Astigmatism can be nearsighted or farsighted.

  • Presbyopia: You now need reading/magnifying glasses due to age related changes to the lens in the eye

Your optometrist will let you know the type(s) of refractive error you have and the best course of treatment as far as glasses and contact lenses. 

blurry eye chart and clear eye chart