Vision Problems

A concise guide to some of the most common vision problems treated at Charleston Eye in Charleston.

There are many different types of vision problems that could be affecting your eyesight. But, for the purposes of this guide, we will be focusing on four of the most common causes of impaired vision. These, along with many other vision impairments, are treated with care and precision by Dr. Smouse at Charleston Eye.

Dr. Smouse will work with you to diagnose your vision problem and suggest the best treatment option for your eyes at our optometry office in Charleston. For more information, schedule an appointment with Dr. Smouse, and we’ll be in touch with you shortly.

Astigmatism

Astigmatism is an uneven or irregular curvature of the cornea or lens, which results in blurred or distorted vision. Symptoms of astigmatism include the need to squint, glare from lights, headaches and eye fatigue. In reality, most people have some degree of astigmatism, which is usually present at birth and is believed to be hereditary. In minor cases, treatment may not be required but is certainly beneficial. Moderate to severe astigmatism can be treated with corrective eyewear or LASIK surgery.

Hyperopia (Farsightedness)

Farsightedness, medically known as hyperopia, refers to vision that is typically better at a distance than at near. Farsightedness occurs when the eyeball is shorter than normal, as measured from front to back, or when the cornea has too little curvature. This reduces the distance between the cornea and retina, causing light to converge behind the retina, rather than on it. If you are mildly farsighted, your eye care provider 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).

Myopia (Nearsightedness)

Nearsightedness, medically known as myopia, refers to vision that is typically better at near than at a distance. It generally occurs because the eyeball is too “long” as measured from front to back or the cornea has too much curvature. Nearsightedness is diagnosed during routine eye exams and possible treatments include eyeglasses, contacts, LASIK and photorefractive keratotomy (PRK).

Presbyopia (Aging Eyes)

Aging eyes, medically known as presbyopia or dysfunctional lens syndrome, is a condition in which the lens of the eye gradually loses its flexibility, making it harder to focus clearly on near 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. However, it is treatable with several types of corrective lenses, including progressives, bifocals and trifocals, single-vision reading glasses, multifocal contact lenses and monovision therapy.

Vision Tips