Which term describes vision problems that occur when the shape of the eye prevents proper focus?

• A. Refractive errors
• B. Glaucoma
• C. Cataracts
• D. Amblyopia

Answer: (A)

Vision problems caused by the eye’s shape preventing light from focusing correctly on the retina are called refractive errors. When the cornea or lens isn’t shaped properly, or the eye is too long or too short, images don’t land exactly on the retina, leading to blurred distance or near vision. Common examples include myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism (irregular curvature). These are typically corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery.

Glaucoma involves damage to the optic nerve, often from high eye pressure, and leads to gradual vision loss. Cataracts are cloudy areas in the lens, causing blurred vision and glare. Amblyopia is reduced vision in one eye due to brain development issues, often from unequal input during childhood. None of these describe the basic issue of improper focus caused by the eye’s shape—that’s a refractive error.