🠕

A Guide on Refractive Error: Types, Causes & Management

Home | Blog | A Guide on Refractive Error: Types, Causes & Management

Best Eye Hospital In Kolkata , Best ophthalmologist in Kolkata , Best Eye specialists in Kolkata , Top eye hospital in Kolkata , best Glaucoma treatment in Kolkata , Best Lasik surgery in Kolkata , Best Cataract Treatment in Kolkata , best cataract surgery in Kolkata , Lasik Surgery Cost in Kolkata , Cataract surgery in Kolkata , Cataract surgery cost in Kolkata , Glaucoma specialist in Kolkata , Refractive surgery in Kolkata , Lasik surgery in Kolkata

By PushpanjaliEyeCare

22.07.2025

Have you heard of refractive error? It is one of those common vision issues that affects the majority of us. Regardless of your age, this issue can affect everyone. Refractive error can occur if your eye shape prevents light from focusing on the retina. As a result, you can even face blurred vision.

Hence, understanding different categories of refractive error, their causes, and available treatment options is necessary. All these will help you maintain optimal eye health with ease. So why wait? Let’s dig into this invaluable guide on the types, causes, and management of refractive error. Contact the best retina specialist in Kolkata to receive effective treatments for refractive errors.

The Basics of Refractive Error

Refractive error is a common eye problem in which the eye can’t bend light in a correct manner. Refractive error can cause incorrect focus and even blurred vision. These errors are the outcomes of changes in the shape of the lens, cornea, or eyeball length. Refractive errors can affect how light rays refract within the eye.

The Types of Refractive Error

There are different categories of refractive errors based on how light focuses on the retina. The major categories of refractive errors include the following.

  • Nearsightedness or Myopia
  • Farsightedness or Hypermetropia
  • Astigmatism
  • Presbyopia

The Most Common Causes of Refractive Errors

As of now, you may realise what refractive error is. Now it’s time to learn the most common causes of refractive errors, including the following. Search for the term ā€˜good eye specialist near me’ to get in touch with renowned eye doctors.

Genetics

The first notable cause of refractive error is genetic disorders. A family history of refractive errors increases the possibility of developing such conditions.

Abnormal eye shape

Another significant reason for refractive error is an abnormal shape of the eye. Variation in the eyeball length or cornea curvature can cause incorrect refraction in eyesight.

Age-related Alterations

Many of us are unaware that specific age-related changes can contribute to the growth of eye issues, such as presbyopia. The natural aging process can affect the flexibility of the lenses, which may trigger these issues.

Environmental Factors

Apart from the factors cited above, several other factors can also contribute to refractive error. Insufficient lighting, excessive screen time, and prolonged near-work tasks are among the significant ones.

Complications of Refractive Errors

Do you know that untreated refractive errors can cause several complications? What are they? Let’s have a look below.

Headaches

Untreated vision problems can lead to frequent headaches, particularly after prolonged periods of screen time or reading.

Eye Strain

Eye strain is another very significant complication of refractive error. Continual focusing efforts and squinting can result in fatigue and discomfort. Are you also facing tremendous eye strain? Look no further and contact a renowned eye care hospital in Kolkata to get effective treatments.

Amblyopia or Lazy Eye

Do you know that refractive errors can cause complete vision loss if not treated well? In children, untreated refractive error can cause permanent loss of vision in one eye.

Decreased Quality of Life

Refractive errors can lead to impaired vision, which can affect your day-to-day activities. Reading, using digital devices, or driving can seem difficult if you have a refractive error.

Treatments of Refractive Errors

When it comes to treating refractive errors, it relies entirely on early diagnosis and proper corrective steps. The treatment option depends on factors such as the severity of the refractive error, lifestyle demands, and age. The most common methods of treating refractive errors are as follows.

Prescription Glasses

The most effective way to treat refractive error is to wear prescription glasses. Eyeglasses are the simplest and most common yet effective way of treating refractive error. After the diagnosis of your refractive error type, your ophthalmologist may prescribe you the required lenses.

Contact Lenses

Contact lenses are another super convenient alternative to eyeglasses. Contact lenses are amazing in that they offer peripheral vision. Contact lenses are available in several types, including rigid, soft, and toric lenses for astigmatism.

Refractive Surgery

Have you heard of refractive surgery? Refractive surgery is a permanent and effective correction of refractive errors. There are three primary types of refractive surgeries available: LASIK, PRK, and ICL.

Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) surgery redesigns the cornea using a laser to correct vision. Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) is a surgery that removes a portion of the corneal surface to enhance focus. Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) surgery includes the insertion of a corrective lens inside the eye. Contact a reputable eye care hospital in Kolkata to get permanent surgical correction of refractive errors.

Lifestyle Modification

Apart from glasses, lenses, and surgery, certain lifestyle modifications can also help in treating refractive errors. Regular eye checkups, taking regular breaks while using digital screens, using screen filters, and proper lighting can help decrease the problem of refractive errors.

The Closing Thoughts

Refractive errors affect millions worldwide. You can easily manage the problem of refractive errors through corrective lenses, surgical options, and preventative eye care. Contact Pushpanjali Eye Care Hospital, where you can get specialised eye treatments with cutting-edge procedures. Our patient-centric care is our ethos, where you can feel valued and respected. So why wait? Contact us today to get effective eye treatments from a renowned retina specialist in Kolkata at a competitive price.