What is Refraction?
Refraction is a crucial eye exam that determines how well your eyes focus light. This test helps in diagnosing vision problems and is essential for prescribing glasses or contact lenses. It measures how light is bent as it enters your eyes and helps identify the need for corrective lenses to improve visual acuity.
Common Symptoms Indicating a Need for Refraction:
- Blurred Vision: Difficulty seeing objects clearly, whether up close or at a distance.
- Frequent Headaches: Persistent headaches that occur after prolonged reading or screen use.
- Eye Strain: Discomfort or fatigue in the eyes after short periods of visual tasks.
- Double Vision: Seeing two images of a single object, which may be constant or intermittent.
- Difficulty Seeing at Night: Trouble seeing in low-light conditions, such as driving at night.
- Squinting: Frequently squinting to see better, which can indicate a vision problem.
- Eyes that Feel Tired or Dry: Persistent feeling of dryness or tiredness in the eyes.
Treatment Options:
Prescription Glasses:
- Single Vision Lenses: Corrects vision at one distance (nearsightedness or farsightedness).
- Bifocal Lenses: Contains two prescriptions for seeing clearly at both near and far distances.
- Progressive Lenses: Offers a gradual transition between multiple lens powers for seamless vision at various distances.
Contact Lenses:
- Soft Contacts: Flexible lenses that conform to the shape of your eye for comfort and clarity.
- Rigid Gas Permeable Lenses: Durable lenses that provide sharper vision and are suitable for various vision conditions.
- Specialty Lenses: Custom lenses for unique vision problems or specific needs, such as astigmatism or presbyopia.
- Comfort and Convenience: Contact lenses offer a high level of comfort and convenience for those who prefer not to wear glasses. They provide a wider field of vision without obstructions and are ideal for active lifestyles or cosmetic preferences.
Vision Therapy:
- Eye Exercises: A series of exercises designed to improve visual skills and processing.
- Orthoptic Training: Helps in improving binocular vision and coordination between the eyes.