In normal sight the image of what you are looking at is focused precisely onto the retina giving clear, crisp vision.
Short sight also known as myopia means that you can see clearly close up but objects in the distance are blurred. The vision is blurred because the eye is too long and objects are focussed in front of the retina instead of on it.
Long sight also known as hyperopia means that near vision is worse than far vision but the effects vary with age. The vision is blurred because the eye is too short and objects are focussed behind the retina.
Astigmatism is caused by a distortion usually in the corneal shape. Normally the cornea is almost spherical like a football, but in astigmatism its curvature is greater in one meridian than the other, like a rugby ball. Vision is blurred at all distances and can occur with short or long sight.
Presbyopia is a result of the eye’s normal ageing process and comes to most people from their mid-40s onwards. The lens inside the eye become less flexible,making close up objects difficult to focus on. Presbyopia is not a disease, but it can cause great inconvenience due to the dependence on reading glasses.
Vision does change over time and you may experience one or more of the conditions above. That is why regular eye care is very important. If you have any concerns about your eyesight do not hesitate to call us.
