Defects of the eye - where do they come from?

Currently, nearly 80 percent of the world's population is suffering from vision defects. Among young people, the rate of myopia reaches 25 percent and far-sightedness or astigmatism are also common. How do such defects arise? Can they be prevented?

The eye is a complex optical system, which consists of the cornea, lens, aqueous humour, and vitreous humour. Vision defects, also called refractive errors, are usually a result of an improper shape of the eye. Refraction is bending of the light rays passing through the optical system. In a healthy eye, light falls on the retina thus creating an image. Refractive error occurs when the refractive power of the eye is too big or too small. In myopia, the image is focused in front of the retina, in hyperopia - behind it. Astigmatism occurs when the light converges in more than one focal point.

There is no single cause of the eye defects. In other words – there are multiple genetic and environmental factors contributing to them.

High-degree myopia is hereditary - if one of the parents has such vision defect, there is a high probability that the child might also suffer from it. In recent years, a significant deterioration of sight among children and adolescents has been observed. It is estimated that the number of myopic people in this age group is five times greater than a dozen or so years ago. This allows us to suppose that environmental factors play a huge role in the formation of vision defects. We spend more and more time in closed spaces, with a TV or computer screen. That certainly has its toll on our eyes - the eye loses the ability to accommodate.

The other very common vision defect is hyperopia, also called far-sightedness. Again, it is most likely a hereditary defect. In addition, such condition as physiological hyperopia exists - it occurs in approximately 90 percent small children due to the spherical shape of their lenses. Fortunately, the defect gradually disappears as the eye grows of the eye; it is usually gone by 6-8 years of age.

It happens, however, that regardless of the distance to the object we are looking at, we cannot see it clearly. Such situations are usually caused by astigmatism. Its causes are not fully known. Most likely, it is a congenital defect that usually coincides with myopia or hyperopia.

If you notice any problems with your vision, make sure to see the doctor. Fortunately, most of vision defects can nowadays be permanently corrected. Laser vision correction is an excellent option for those dreaming about getting rid of them forever. Do you belong to this category? Contact our Ophthalmologic Centre! Ask our doctor a question, complete the online Preliminary Qualification Form, or make an appointment for a qualifying examination.

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