28.2.2025
The Most Common Eye Defects: Myopia, Hyperopia, Astigmatism, and Amblyopia
The most common eye defects include poor near and distance vision as well as astigmatism. Vision problems affect a large proportion of the population and are most commonly corrected with prescription glasses or contact lenses. In addition, laser eye surgery is available for adults aged 18 to 45. For older individuals, diopters can be eliminated by replacing the intraocular lens.
Short-Sightedness – Myopia
Myopia is an eye defect characterized by blurred vision at a distance, while near vision remains clear. The light rays converge in front of the retina instead of directly on it, resulting in a blurred image.
Correction:
- Prescription glasses
- Contact lenses
- Laser surgery or intraocular lens replacement
Farsightedness – Hyperopia (Hypermetropia)
In hyperopia, the light rays converge behind the retina, which prevents the formation of a sharp image. The person experiences difficulty seeing clearly up close. In more severe cases, farsightedness may also affect distance vision.
Correction:
- Prescription glasses
- Contact lenses
- Laser surgery or intraocular lens replacement
Astigmatism – Cylindrical Defect
Astigmatism often causes blurred vision at all distances. It frequently occurs together with myopia or hyperopia. The condition is caused by an irregular curvature of the cornea or an irregular shape of the lens, leading to light rays focusing unevenly on the retina. As a result, vision appears blurred or hazy.
Correction:
- Cylindrical lenses
- Contact lenses
- Laser surgery or implantation of toric lenses
Amblyopia – Lazy Eye
Amblyopia is an eye defect that develops in childhood due to insufficient visual development. It can be treated in specialized clinics but only during childhood. If the defect is not detected and treated in time, it becomes a lifelong condition that cannot be corrected with treatment or surgery. Therefore, it is important for parents to support their child’s treatment in cooperation with specialists.
Key preventive measures:
- Regular eye examinations starting in preschool age
- Early initiation of treatment
- Eye training through regular pleoptic exercises
