Vision Problems

It is easy to think of eyes as simple orbs that let us see, but they are highly complex structures, with many parts that have to coordinate well with one another in order for vision to function properly.

Should something within your eyes shift out of alignment or degrade, it can cause significant vision problems. Evaluating and addressing these problems early can not only provide a route to clearer vision, but also potentially prevent future issues.

We will describe some of the most common vision problems here, all of which fall under the category of “refractive errors.” However, never hesitate to contact us anytime you or a loved one is noticing any blurriness, distortion, or other vision issues—regardless of the suspected cause or condition.

Common Problems We Treat

Myopia – Nearsightedness

When vision is clear at close range, but becomes blurry when trying to focus on objects in the distance, it is commonly referred to as nearsightedness. The medical term is “myopia.”

Myopia typically develops because the eyeball is too “long.” When light enters the eye, it comes to a point in front of the retina instead of upon it, making it more difficult to focus on faraway objects. Eyeglasses and contact lenses can commonly correct this problem, but LASIK may also be an option. For more severe or specialized cases, procedures such as acrylic corneal implants or refractive lens exchange may be recommended.

Hyperopia – Farsightedness

When vision at a distance is clear, but close-up objects are difficult to focus upon, this is commonly referred to as farsightedness. The medical term is “hyperopia.”

In many ways the opposite of myopia, hyperopia tends to develop when the eyeball is “shorter” than typical or the cornea is not curved as much as it is needed. Light is not able to come to a point before it hits the retina, making close objects appear blurry.

Eyeglasses, contacts, and LASIK are all potential options for treating farsightedness, as can be refractive lens exchange for unique cases.

Myopia

Astigmatism – Blurry Vision

Astigmatism is blurry or distorted vision caused by irregularities in the curvature of the eye’s cornea or lens. In essence, the vast majority of people have at least a minor degree of astigmatism.

If one’s astigmatism is minor enough to cause no noticeable symptoms, then it often does not require treatment. However, if it is significant enough to cause noticeable vision distortion, squinting, eye strain, headaches, and/or eye fatigue, then corrective action in the form of eyewear or LASIK will often be recommended.

Presbyopia – Aging Eyes

Just like any fine instrument, our eyes can eventually degrade and lose precision. In presbyopia, the lens starts to slowly lose flexibility, making the tasks of bending light and focusing on close-up objects more difficult. Vision at greater distances does not tend to be substantially affected by this condition.

While there is little that can be done to prevent this gradual breakdown, it is still treatable via corrective lenses. Bifocals, trifocals, reading glasses, and monovision or multifocal contact lenses can all be effective tools in restoring clear vision.

Mattawan’s Choice for Vision Correction and Care

Do not let vision problems inhibit your life any longer than they need to. We can expertly diagnose your condition and provide you with the optimal options for correction – not only ones that work, but will live up to the demands of your life as well!

Call us at (269) 668-5558 to schedule an appointment with us. If you prefer to reach us electronically instead, simply fill out our online contact form and a member of our staff will respond to you during our standard office hours.

Mattawan's Choice

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Open Hours

  • Monday 12:30pm – 6pm
  • Tuesday 9am – 5pm*
  • Wednesday 9am – 5pm*
  • Thursday 9am – 5pm*
  • Friday 9am – 4pm*

*Closed for lunch 11:30 – 12:30 Tuesday thru Friday*
Closed Weekends and Holidays

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52883 N. Main Street
Mattawan, MI 49071

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Mattawan Family Eye Care