Eyesight Problems

Myopia is a refractive condition of the eye, in which light entering the eye converges in front of the retina. This results in the blurring of distant objects. Myopia can be corrected with eyeglasses or contact lenses

Hyperopia is a refractive fault of the eye in which light entering the eye, when it is relaxed (relaxation of accommodation), converges behind the retina. In early ages, when the accommodation range of the eye is high close objects are clear while distant ones are blurred. In older ages when the accommodation range is reduced both distant and near vision is blurred. Hyperopia can be corrected with eyeglasses or contact lenses.

Astigmatism is a condition in which the refractive power of the eye is not the same in all meridians, that is when light enters the eye it fails to focus on the same level of the retina. In astigmatism distant and nearby objects appear distorted. Astigmatism comes mainly from the cornea (corneal astigmatism), but rarely from the crystalline lens, or an irregular curvature of the posterior pole (retinal astigmatism). Astigmatism can be corrected with eyeglasses or contact lenses.

Accommodative amplitude is gradually and continually reduced from birth to the age of 60. Presbyopia appears around the age of 40-45, when the amplitude of accommodation is insufficient and does not allow clear and comfortable near vision. Presbyopia can be corrected with eyeglasses or contact lenses.

Photophobia is anophthalmological and is associated with unusual sensitivity of the eyes to light. Tests should be carried out in order to diagnose the cause accurately.

Cataract is clouding of the crystalline lens of the eye. It is very common, cannot be prevented or cured with medication and usually appears with age. Sometimes though it can be caused by injury, certain diseases or drugs, and rarely a child may be born with cataract (congenital cataract)

Glaucoma includes various disorders of the eye as well as an increase of intraocular pressure which may create lesions in the visual field and optic disc cupping.

Macular degeneration is a condition that affects the central area of the eye and is one of the most common causes of reduced visual acuity in people over 60. Depending on the stage of its progression macular edema or bleeding may be detected. In advanced stages a scar tissue develops in the macula which leads to reduction, and gradually, possible loss of sight.