Refraction

WHAT IS A REFRACTIVE ERROR?

A refractive error means that your eyesight is blurry because it does not bend light the way it should.

There are a few types of refractive errors. They include:

  • Myopia (nearsightedness): You can clearly see things that are close by, but far away objects are blurry.
  • Hyperopia (farsightedness): You can clearly see things that are far away, but things that are close are blurry. In severe cases, things are blurry at any distance.
  • Astigmatism (irregular cornea): The surface of your eye curves asymmetrically, causing distortion and blurriness at all distances.
  • Presbyopia (near vision loss because of age): You’ve experienced some loss of vision because of aging which causes less flexibility in your natural lenses.

If you have a refractive error, it usually just means you need correction of some sort to accommodate during your daily life. However, severe cases of refractive errors like myopia can come with a risk of retinal detachment. In any case, it’s important to seek out treatment sooner rather than later.

“ I had Cataracts surgery done by Dr. Nguyen. The procedure was absolutely quick and painless. I really apreciated to Dr. Nguyen about her careness and respectfully. I thinks she is one of the best Doctor in Northern Virginia. I would recommend her to anyone who want to have Cataracts done. Once again I thanks her to taking care of my eyes. ”

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Frequently Asked Questions

How a refraction test is done by eye doctor?

During the refraction test, you sit in an exam chair that has a special device called a “phoropter” attached to it. The doctor will ask you to look through the device at an eye chart on the wall in front of you. The doctor will then switch between different powers of lenses inside the device and ask if the eye chart is more or less clear each time. Once they have found the right combination of lenses to give you your best vision, they will write those down as a glasses or contact lens prescription that you can fill.

Do they dilate your eyes for a refraction test?

Generally, the doctor does not need to dilate your eyes for a refraction test. However, there are certain circumstances where dilation may be necessary.

What eye problems are detected by refraction?

A refraction test can help detect multiple different conditions that affect your vision. These include conditions that can be improved with glasses or contact lenses such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia. They can also help detect conditions that need medical treatment to be improved such as cataracts, cornea problems, retina problems, and others.

Can you drive after eye refraction?

A refraction test will not affect your ability to drive.

What is the difference between an eye exam and refraction?

An eye exam involves the doctor examining your eye to look for any potential health problems. A refraction test only involves finding what glasses or contact lens prescription would be best for you. Many people choose to have both during the same visit, but always make sure you select which one (or both) you would like when you make an appointment.

Is a refraction test necessary?

There are times when you will be required to get a refraction test, such as if you fail the vision test at the DMV. Even if you are not required to get one, having the right glasses or contact lens prescription helps you safely go about most of your everyday activities from reading to driving.

How serious is a refraction error?

How serious your refraction error is depends on how much it impairs your vision and your ability to live a normal, happy life.

How accurate is a refraction test?

Refraction tests, performed by a qualified and experienced doctor, are very accurate.

What are the 4 main refractive errors?

The four main refractive errors include nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia. These conditions are common, and the number of people who have them continues to grow.

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