Common Terms Associated with Eyecare:

Astigmatism: One type of eye condition that falls within the category of refractive errors. This condition distorts vision and is usually caused by an irregular curvature of the cornea (the front surface of the eye). This irregular curvature causes two different focal points in the same eye, creating distorted and blurred vision. Your eyecare proffesional will offer corrective eyewear to help redirect light in a more effective manner.

Cataracts: A condition of the eye where there is a loss of transparency in the crystalline. This condition is most common among people who are over the age of 55. Hwoever, eye injuries, disease, heredity, or birth defects may also cause cataracts.

Farsightedness: (Also known as Hyperopia). An eye condition where your eyes can focus well on distant objects but not on nearby objects.

Glaucoma: A condition of the eye where there is increased pressure within the eye that can destroy the optic nerve if not treated promptly.

Macular Degeneration: Any damage to the macula (the micro-thin membrane that covers three quarters of the eye's internal back lining).

Nearsigtedness: (Also known as Myopia). An eye condition where your eyes can focus well on nearby objects but not on distant objects.

Presbyopia: A condition where the lens of the eye loses its flexibility and elasticity, affecting the eye's refractive ability. Presbyopia is usually first noticed in difficulty reading close-up. Normally, the condition begins to interfere a person's vision when they are in their late 30's to early 40's. Presbyopia affects everyone. Currently, there is no known prevention for this condition.

Ophthalmologist: A medical doctor who deals with the structure, functions, and diseases of the eye. An ophthalmologist can also perform eye surgery.

Optician: A person who makes, fits, and dispenses eyeglasses.

Optometrist: A person who measures vision and prescribes corrective lenses to compensate for vision defects; is also involved in the diagnosis, treatment and management of eye diseases and injuries.

Lazy Eye: (Also known as amblyopia). A condition where a person's vision cannot be corrected to 20/20 even with the aid of eyeglasses or contact lenses. This condition affects about two percent of children. With early diagnosis and treatment, one can avoid permanent vision loss.

Cross Eyes: (Also known as strabismus). A condition that occurs when the eyes are not properly aligned with each other. Cross eyes affects four percent of children.