inspiring canadians to live better.

healthing leaf

inspiring canadians to live better.

healthing leaf
get healthing in your inbox with the morning checkup and weekender newsletter!

top of the page

refractive error

refractive error is a condition that causes blurred vision when light rays entering the eye meet in front of or behind the retina rather than directly on it.

normally, light rays are bent (refracted) by the cornea and lens and focus directly on the retina, the nerve layer at the back of the eye, which results in clear vision.

in most cases, refractive errors represent a natural variation from normal vision and are not considered a disease. nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia are common refractive errors.

vision usually can be corrected with glasses or contact lenses or, in some cases, surgery.

this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use. learn how we develop our content.

this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy. to learn more about healthwise, visit healthwise.org. © 1995-2022 healthwise, incorporated. healthwise, healthwise for every health decision, and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise, incorporated.

advertisement