Refractive Errors
Condition:
Cataracts occur when the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurry vision.
Treatments:
Refractive errors are common vision problems caused by irregularities in the shape of the eye. They include myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), astigmatism, and presbyopia. Here are five common treatments for refractive errors:
Glasses:
Corrective eyeglasses have lenses designed to compensate for the specific refractive error. They are a non-invasive and effective way to improve vision.
Contact Lenses:
Contact lenses sit directly on the eye’s surface and can provide clear vision without the need for glasses. They come in various types, including soft, rigid gas permeable, and specialty lenses for astigmatism or presbyopia.
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis):
LASIK is a popular surgical procedure used to correct refractive errors. It involves using a laser to reshape the cornea, which changes the eye’s focusing power. LASIK is typically used to treat myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy):
PRK is another type of laser eye surgery similar to LASIK. In PRK, the outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) is removed and the underlying tissue is reshaped with a laser. It’s suitable for people who may not be candidates for LASIK.
LASEK (Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis):
LASEK is a variation of PRK where a thinner layer of the cornea is removed, and it includes a protective “flap” of epithelial tissue that is repositioned after laser treatment.
Phakic Intraocular Lens (IOL):
This is a type of implantable lens that is placed inside the eye without removing the natural lens. Phakic IOLs are used to correct severe nearsightedness and are an alternative for individuals who are not candidates for LASIK.
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE):
RLE is a procedure similar to cataract surgery, where the natural lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens. It is used to correct refractive errors and can be an option for people with presbyopia who want to reduce their dependence on reading glasses.