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Refractive Errors (Short & Long Sight)
Refractive errors like myopia (short sight), hyperopia (long sight) and astigmatism cause blurred vision because the eye does not focus light correctly.
Causes & risk factors
- Shape or length of the eyeball
- Family history
- Prolonged close work and less outdoor time (myopia in children)
- Ageing (for near vision — presbyopia)
- Curvature of the cornea (astigmatism)
Common symptoms
- Blurred vision (far or near)
- Headaches
- Squinting to see clearly
- Eye strain
- Difficulty reading small print
- Tired eyes
Tests & diagnosis
- Vision test (visual acuity)
- Refraction test
- Eye examination
- Retinal check
Treatment & management
- Glasses tailored to the error
- Contact lenses
- Laser vision correction (LASIK) in suitable adults
- Regular eye checks, especially for children
- Encouraging outdoor time in children to slow myopia
When to see a doctor urgently
- A child squinting, sitting close to the TV or struggling at school
- Sudden change in vision
- Blurring with pain, floaters or flashes
- Headaches with vision problems
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about refractive errors (short & long sight). It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Can spectacle power be reversed?
Glasses correct the focus but do not change the eye. In suitable adults, laser surgery can reduce dependence on glasses, but a full assessment is needed first.
Why is short sight increasing in children?
More close-up work and less outdoor time are linked to rising myopia. Regular breaks and outdoor play may help slow it.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.