Refractive Errors
What are refractive errors?
Refractive errors occur when the eye does not bend light properly, preventing it from focusing directly on the retina. This can result in blurred vision, whether for nearby or distant objects. These conditions are very common and can develop at any age, often progressing over time.
Common symptoms
Refractive errors may progress slowly, making symptoms harder to detect early on. As the condition advances, patients may experience:
- Blurred or double vision
- Headaches, especially after visual tasks
- Eye strain or fatigue
- Difficulty focusing on screens or reading material
- Glare or halos around lights
- Squinting to improve clarity
Types of refractive errors
TED typically progresses through two phases:
Myopia (short-sightedness)
Distant objects appear blurry while near vision remains clear. This is often due to the eyeball being slightly elongated.
What causes refractive errors?
Refractive errors result from structural differences in the eye.
- Changes in eyeball length (too short or too long)
- Irregular shape of the cornea
- Alterations in the lens density or flexibility
- Age-related changes in the eye
- Genetic factors that run in families
Myopia and astigmatism are often detected in childhood, while presbyopia usually emerges during middle age.
Treatment & vision correction
We will assess your eye health and lifestyle to guide you toward the most suitable option. Treatment for refractive errors includes both non-surgical and surgical approaches:
Non-surgical
Prescription Glasses: Single-vision, bifocal, or progressive lenses
Contact Lenses: Available in soft, rigid, or specialty designs like toric and multifocal lenses
How refractive errors are diagnosed
Our ophthalmologists conduct comprehensive eye exams to diagnose refractive errors. Tests may include:
Visual acuity testing
Refraction assessments
Slit-lamp
Eye dilation
How refractive errors are diagnosed
Our Specialists
Our team of board-certified ophthalmologists and licensed optometrists brings together decades of specialized training and experience. Each doctor has completed additional fellowship training in subspecialty areas, ensuring you receive the most advanced care available.
Frequently asked questions
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WHAT YOU SEE MATTERS
Struggling with near vision?
Refractive errors are on the rise in Singapore from urban living and extended screen use. Eagle Eye Centre offers personalised care, from updated lenses to surgical options, guided by precise diagnostics.