Most cases of blurry vision are caused by a form of refractive error. Just like when you’re photographing something and can’t bring it into focus, the eye also struggles until it’s brought into focus by the ideal lens.

There are generally three different categories of refractive error we correct for. Myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism.

Myopia (short-sightedness) is a condition in which light focuses just short of the retina (the back of the eye), and results in things in the distance being blurrier than things close by. 

Hyperopia (long-sightedness) is a condition in which light focuses too far behind the retina meaning that things are blurrier up close than they are in the distance. Some small amounts of hyperopia can be compensated for using the eye’s internal focusing system, but this may cause eye strain over prolonged periods.

Astigmatism is a condition in which light focuses at multiple different spots and can result in distortion of images, streaking of lights, or glare. Some astigmatism may also lead to eye strain as the focusing system attempts to adjust between multiple focal points.

All these kinds of refractive errors may be corrected with personalised spectacles or contact lenses to allow you to continue your life with clear and comfortable vision.