What are refractive errors?
Refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), presbyopia (age-related vision loss), and astigmatism (abnormally shaped cornea) are common vision conditions that affect the eyes' ability to focus and see clearly. They occur when the shape of the eye prevents light from properly focusing on the retina. Common symptoms include blurry vision, eye strain, halos around bright lights, and chronic headaches, among others. At West County Ophthalmology, our vision professionals commonly treat many types of refractive errors and provide prescription lenses and surgical options to help improve a patient's vision. Contact us for an appointment at one of our two locations in Chesterfield or O'Fallon, MO to schedule an eye exam and discuss your treatment options.
How are refractive errors treated?
Refractive errors may require corrective lenses such as glasses or contacts to help patients experience their best vision. After our team measures your visual acuity and performs exams to assess your overall eye health, we can conduct tests with a phoropter to determine your needed prescription lens strength. Our professionals can then help you find the ideal lenses to fit your lifestyle needs and budget, whether glasses, contacts, or a combination of the two. After you are fitted for lenses, you can pick out frames for eyeglasses in our optical shop or choose from our wide variety of contact lenses. If you are interested in surgical options for treating your refractive errors, our ophthalmologists can discuss what you may be a candidate for, as well as the risks and benefits of refractive surgery.
Improve Your Vision
Refractive errors can impact your vision and quality of life in several ways and make it challenging to navigate everyday tasks. Many patients with refractive errors experience symptoms, while others may not notice signs or symptoms at all. Since these conditions can develop at any age, screening for and treating refractive errors can help ensure your vision is as clear as possible. To learn more about refractive errors or to schedule a comprehensive eye exam, contact West County Ophthalmology in Chesterfield or O'Fallon, MO. Our ophthalmologists provide eye and vision care for adults and pediatric patients.
