Understanding Common Eyesight Problems
This page briefly describes the common eyesight problems that result in the need for glasses or contact lenses. Keep reading to understand the various vision correction treatments available at Centre for Sight.
Good knowledge is important and we hope you find this material useful in understanding common eye conditions and why you need glasses or contact lenses. Links are provided to give you more detail about specific eyesight problems.
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UK Vision and Glasses Statistics
Here are some useful statistics relating to vision in the UK
How Does the Normal Eye Work ?
The eye is very similar to a camera. The cornea and lens are similar to a camera lens, and both eyes and cameras have an iris which controls the amount of light that enters. Light rays enter the eye and 60 to 70% of the focus is performed by the front clear part of the eye, which is the cornea. The remaining 30 to 40% of focus is by the lens inside the eye.
The retina is similar to the film of the camera: light rays need to come to a point of focus on this structure at the back of the eye. Information from the retina is passed to the optic nerve and then on to the brain. In the brain information is processed very much like a computer, and then turned into vision. To see well, light rays must be at a point focus in the eye.
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What Causes Common Eyesight Problems?
If the eye is too long or short or the cornea too flat or steep, light rays focus in a place other than the retina. This means the information transmitted to the brain is poor and interpreted as a blur. This is called a refractive error, and there are four types that cause common eyesight problems:
Shortsightedness (Myopia)
This is where vision without glasses is quite good up close (sometimes very close) but poor at distance.
Click here to learn more about shortsightedness.
Farsightedness (Hyperopia)
This is where vision is clear at distance and often clear at near. Farsighted people often report having fantastic vision when they were young and then with advancing age, near vision become blurry and in time distance vision also becomes worsens with the need for glasses for both near and distance.
Click here to learn more about farsightedness.
Astigmatism
This is found in combination with either SHORTSIGHT or FARSIGHT. There are two focal points of the eye and this occurs because the cornea is shaped like a rugby ball rather than a soccer ball. There are two powers on the cornea and light rays in one or both areas of the cornea may focus inside or outside the eye. This means the retina picks up a blurred image.
Click here to learn more about astigmatism.
Need for reading glasses (Presbyopia)
Beyond the age of 40 the lens inside the eye becomes harder and does not move as easily. This lens is necessary for near focus and if it cannot change shape, near focus becomes a problem. Glasses or bifocals are needed with extra power to compensate for this loss of lens function. Click here to learn more about presbyopia.
Treatments for presbyopia:
Benefits of Treating Eyesight Problems
- Experience 20/20 vision
- No more reliance on glasses
- No more fiddling around with contact lenses
- Fast recovery times
Popular Procedures
Advancements in vision correction, such as laser eye surgery, implantable contact lenses offer effective solutions for those looking to enjoy life glasses-free, providing clear vision without the need for corrective eyewear
LASIK
LASIK is a quick, precise laser treatment designed to correct vision problems such as short-sight, long-sight, and astigmatism.
Laser Lens Replacement
A one-time procedure that corrects your eyesight today and prevents cataracts tomorrow, giving you clear and natural vision.
Why Choose Centre for Sight
Centre for Sight is one of the UK’s most established and pioneering eye care providers, with over 30 years of experience and multiple national firsts. We were the first clinic in the UK to perform LASIK, and among the earliest to introduce femtosecond laser technology for both laser eye surgery and cataract procedures. Our consultants have collectively performed over 35,000 cataract surgeries, delivering exceptional outcomes backed by audited results and world-class surgical expertise. Patients benefit from fully consultant-led care, advanced diagnostic technology, and personalised treatment planning all supported by our reputation as a trusted centre where ophthalmologists from around the world come to observe and train. At Centre for Sight, innovation, safety, and excellence are built into every step of your journey.
Patient Success Stories
Such great care and service here. I had a household accident last week and came to get my eye looked at, which they went out of their way to accomodate on the same morning of ringing. The team is amazing, the admin, nurses, and consultant were really kind and caring. The follow up care has also been great with calls after a week to check how I’m getting on. Everyone has been so warm and friendly, a huge heartfelt thank you!
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sana ali
The best decision ever! My eye treatment at Centre for Sight has changed my life and enhanced my confidence. Having trifocal lenses implanted by Mr Sheraz Daya has restored my eyesight and I no longer need to use any lenses for reading, driving or any other activities.
From my first encounter with Mr Daya and his team at Centre for Sight, I felt most reassured that I was getting a very professional opinion and treatment. The day of the procedure was made much easier by the comforting support provided to me by Dr Espinosa whilst Mr Daya was performing my eye surgery. Overall, a fantastic experience and a great result.
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Manuel Oyarzabal
Really proffesional
The professionalism I experienced right the way through the process was just brilliant. With all the testing prior to surgery, I felt very sure that I was doing the right thing. Saj Khan was not only very proffesional, he was also quite funny, which put you at ease.
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Nigel Guthrie
A heartfelt thank you also to his team: Adora and Teresa, who have supported me from my very first appointment and always make me feel welcome, and Katie, Debra and Alex at Grinstead, who cared for me during surgery and helped me through one of the most anxious times of my life.
I cannot recommend Dr Daya and his team enough. For anyone who is unsure or afraid of taking this step — please know this really can change your life.
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Rikesh Patel
Excellent Result
Initial tests were very thorough and the recommendations clearly set out. The operation itself was quick and painless. All the staff were friendly and professional. The aftercare was faultless.
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Derek
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London Centre
Centre for Sight London, located at 14 Queen Anne St, Suite 2, in the prestigious Harley Street area, offers consultations, follow-up care, and YAG laser procedures.
Sussex Centre
Hazelden Place, Turners Hill Road, East Grinstead, West Sussex, RH19 4RH
Arguably the most modern private eye hospital in the UK, our hospital in Sussex offers Laser Vision Correction, Corneal Transplants, Stem Cell Surgery and more.
Surrey Centre
48 High Street, Oxshott, Surrey, KT22 0JR
Centre for Sight London, located at 14 Queen Anne St, Suite 2, in the prestigious Harley Street area, offers consultations, follow-up care, and YAG laser procedures.
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Additional Information on common eyesight problems
Please see below for some of the most common question relating to eyesight problems.
What are the most common eyesight problems?
The most common eyesight problems include nearsightedness (myopia), where distant objects appear blurry, and farsightedness (hyperopia), where close objects are difficult to focus on. Astigmatism causes blurry or distorted vision due to an irregularly shaped cornea, while presbyopia is the age-related loss of near vision, typically affecting those over 40.
How can presbyopia be corrected?
Presbyopia is the age-related difficulty in focusing on close objects, which typically starts around age 40. It can be corrected with reading glasses, bifocals, or progressive lenses. Laser eye surgery or multifocal contact lenses are also options for those who wish to reduce dependence on reading glasses.
What is astigmatism, and how does it affect vision?
Astigmatism is caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens, which prevents light from focusing evenly on the retina. This results in blurred or distorted vision at all distances. It can be present alongside other refractive errors like myopia or hyperopia and is typically diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam.
How can presbyopia be corrected?
Presbyopia is the age-related difficulty in focusing on close objects, which typically starts around age 40. It can be corrected with reading glasses, bifocals, or progressive lenses. Laser eye surgery or multifocal contact lenses are also options for those who wish to reduce dependence on reading glasses.
Have Questions?
Our patient care team is here to answer any questions you may have.