Visual Problems

In order for the eye to see clearly, light must be focused exactly on the Retina. Listed below are four major reasons why light does not focus properly where it should. As your professional optometrists in Rockford, Michigan, we are qualified in correcting these visual problems. Schedule an exam with us today!

Myopia (Nearsightedness)

Nearsightedness, medically known as myopia, refers to vision that is blurry at distance but is generally clearer at near. This usually happens because the lens is rounder or thicker than average or because the eyeball is too “long" or "big” as measured from front to back. Therefore, light will focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. There are many possible treatments including eyeglasses, contacts, acrylic corneal implants, LASIK, radial keratotomy (RK) and photorefractive keratotomy (PRK). Depending upon your persciption, at Rockford Family Eyecare, we can give you the best suggestion for your needs.

Hyperopia (Farsightedness)

Farsightedness, medically known as hyperopia, refers to vision that is clearer or more comfortable at a distance rather than up close. However, if you have enough farsightedness you may have trouble at far AND near. Hyperopia occurs when the lens is thinner than average or when eyeball is shorter than normal, as measured from front to back. This reduces the distance between the cornea and retina, causing light to converge behind the retina rather than on it. If you are only mildly farsighted, your doctor may not recommend corrective treatment at all. However, if you are moderately or severely hyperopic you may have several treatment options available, including eyeglasses, contacts, LASIK and photorefractive keratectomy (PRK).

Astigmatism

Astigmatism is often described as having "football shaped eyes". More specifically, astigmatism describes an eye that has an assymetrical curvature of the cornea and/or lens. This assymetry causes a lot of distortion to fine detail usually at distance and near. Many people have astigmatism to some degree. When the amount of astigmatism is small, there may not be any symptoms. As the amount of astigmatism increases, symptoms can include, sensitivity to light, the need to squint, eye strain from squinting, headaches, and eye fatigue.
​​​​​​​

Presbyopia

Presbyopia or "aging eyes" is a natural condition in which the lens of the eye gradually loses its flexibility, making it harder to focus clearly on close objects such as printed words. Distance vision, on the other hand, is usually not affected. Unfortunately, presbyopia is an inevitable part of aging and cannot be prevented by diet, lifestyle, or visual habits. Although computer use does not increase or induce presbyopia, near problems are noticed more when use of the computer or reading is increased. However, it is managed with several types of corrective lenses including progressives, bifocals, trifocals, single-vision reading glasses, multifocal contact lenses, and monovision contact lenses. Come talk to us or schedule an exam to discuss all the treatment options available for correcting presbyopia via glasses or contacts, today.