Give us a call:

01749 345259

Understanding Common Vision Problems: Myopia, Hyperopia, Astigmatism

10 October 2024

Vision with no optical defect (so called 20/20)

What is it?
Sight without some form of optical defect is uncommon. Most people have at least a small optical defect, although in many cases it is not bad enough to significantly affect the vision and require correction. Eyes without a sight defect are able to focus objects from infinity accurately onto the retina at the back of the eye, allowing it to send a clear image to the brain for interpretation.
How does it affect your vision?
Vision will be clear at distance and near – at least until your mid forties when the lens inside your eye hardens necessitating the wearing of reading glasses (Presbyopia).

Normal vision

Normal Vision

Myopia (Short-sightedness)

What is it?
Myopia, or short-sightedness, is a condition where people can see objects that are close to them clearly, but distant objects appear blurry. This occurs when the eye’s shape causes light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it.
How does it affect your vision?
Myopia is caused either by an elongated eyeball or a cornea (the window on the front of the eye) that’s too curved, making it difficult to focus on faraway objects. As a result, individuals with myopia may struggle to see things like road signs, blackboards, or distant objects clearly. Myopia can range from mild to severe, with higher levels often requiring stronger corrective lenses.

Symptoms include:
• Blurred distance vision
• Difficulty seeing objects at a distance
• Eye strain or headaches from squinting to see far away

Myopia

Myopia

________________________________________

Hyperopia (Long-sightedness)

What is it?
Hyperopia, or long-sightedness, is a condition in which distant objects are seen more clearly than close ones. It happens when the eye is too short, or the cornea has too little curvature, causing light to focus behind the retina.
How does it affect your vision?
People with hyperopia may be able to see distant objects relatively well but struggle with close-up tasks like reading or using a smartphone. It is particularly important for long-sightedness to be picked up in children’s eyes as early as possible to ensure proper development of visual perception.

Symptoms include:
• Blurred near vision
• Eye strain, especially when reading or doing close work
• Headaches or fatigue after prolonged close-up activities

Hyperopia

Hyperopia

________________________________________

Astigmatism

What is it?
Astigmatism is a condition in which the cornea or lens inside the eye is irregularly shaped and has a greater degree of curve in one meridian than another. This irregularity causes light to focus on multiple points rather than a single point on the retina, leading to distorted or blurred vision at all distances.
How does it affect your vision?
Astigmatism affects both near and distant vision, as it causes general blurriness or distortion. It’s often present alongside myopia or hyperopia and can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or even refractive surgery.

Symptoms include:
• Blurred or distorted vision at any distance
• Eye strain or discomfort
• Headaches, especially after prolonged visual tasks

Astigmatism

Astigmatism

________________________________________

Correction Options for All Three Conditions

Regular eye exams are crucial for diagnosing and managing these conditions, ensuring individuals get the best corrective options to maintain clear vision

Are your eyes feeling dry after a day’s work at the computer?

Want to be informed of
new products & offers?

Subscribe today
Christopher Young

Christopher Young

Optometrist

Chris qualified as an optometrist virtually before time began. He has worked in the practice since it opened in 1986 and now specialises in Vision Therapy. In his spare time he is a member of the local Masonic Lodge and enjoys sailing, watching rugby and cricket as well as sampling Single Malts and red wine.

Rebecca

Rebecca

Optometrist and Dry Eye Specialist

After finishing a degree in Biology at Southampton University Rebecca went on to study Optometry at Cardiff University and completed her pre-registration at Williams & Parry Opticians in heart of the Welsh valleys.

Rebecca still keeps a strong affiliation with Cardiff University and has returned as a part-time clinical supervisor and also as an organiser/participant in the ‘Returning Vision Moldova Project’. This non-profit University associated project involves visiting remote and impoverished communities in Moldova and providing eye exams and glasses to those in need.

Always keen to expand her knowledge Rebecca has consistently completed extra accreditation in optometry since graduating; most recently the post-graduate certificate in Independent Prescribing for Optometrists.

After meeting a particularly charming West-Country man 6 years ago Rebecca migrated across the Severn bridge and has resided very happily in the Mendip area ever since. Of course being Welsh she is an avid Rugby fan and during any international match she is easily recognisable at her local pub for sporting the only red shirt in the house!

Tracy

Tracy

Manager & Eyewear Advisor

Tracy worked for Tesco on the customer service desk for many years before joining us in 2014. In her spare time she enjoys walking and travel, particularly to the USA.

Tanis

Tanis

Optical Assistant and Vision Therapist

Tanis also works on the front desk in the practice. She is responsible for meeting and greeting our clients, answering the phone and performing administrative duties. She job shares with Steph. Tanis moved to Somerset with her family 4 years ago. She has extensive experience in customer service and enjoys running and walking.

Nikisha

Nikisha

Audiologist and Hearing Aid Consultant

Nikisha has been a fully qualified audiologist for more than seven years, having graduated from the University of Bristol in Summer 2012. After gaining her degree, she worked as part of a fantastic NHS team in Bath for two years, which greatly developed her clinical expertise.

Following her time in the NHS, Nikisha wanted to broaden her knowledge further, and so five years ago moved into the private sector, where she has been able to continue to build her extensive skillset.

“I decided to venture out and join the team at The Hearing Care Partnership because they are renowned for delivering great customer service and great technology to their clients, which is something I wanted to be part of. In addition, working alongside optical practice teams was an intriguing proposition, and a whole new experience for me.

“When I’m not at work, I love to spend time with my daughter. I also really enjoy a good mystery or crime book – Harlan Coben is one of my favourite authors!”

Kay

Kay

Optical Assistant

Kay has had many years of customer service, both in retail and Doctor’s surgeries. She is happiest when walking in the Somerset countryside with her dog.

Eloise

Eloise

Eyewear Stylist and Dry Eye Technician

Eloise joined us from another High Street Optical practice. She has been trained as an optical assistant and clinical technician and is supporting Tracy with Styling Consultations as well as helping to run our Dry Eye Clinics