Farsightedness

(Hyperopia)

by Cynthia M. Johnson, MA

Definition

People with farsightedness have a hard time seeing close objects. Images are blurred. People with severe symptoms may have trouble seeing objects both far and near.

Causes

This problem happens when the shape of the eye does not bend light correctly. The eyeball is too short for light rays to clearly focus on the retina.

It may also be caused by a problem with the shape of the cornea or lens.

Interior of the Eye

Light rays are precisely focused on the retina (orange) in good vision.

Risk Factors

This problem is more common in people who have other family members who are farsighted.

Symptoms

Problems may be:

Trouble focusing on objects that are close
Blurred eyesight
Headache
A feeling of tiredness in the eyes

Young adults with farsightedness often do not have symptoms. However, they may need reading glasses at an earlier age.

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. Your vision will be tested. This is often enough to make the diagnosis. You may also be referred to a doctor who treats eyes.

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to improve vision. Options are:

Corrective lenses, such as eyeglasses or contacts
Surgery to change the shape of the eye to improve its ability to focus light

Prevention

There are no known guidelines to prevent this health problem.

RESOURCES:

American Academy of Ophthalmology
http://www.aao.org

National Eye Institute
http://www.nei.nih.gov

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

Canadian Ophthalmological Society
http://www.eyesite.ca

Health Canada
https://www.canada.ca

References:

Farsightedness (hyperopia). National Eye Institute website. Available at: https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/farsightedness-hyperopia. Accessed October 22, 2020.

Hyperopia (farsightedness). American Optometric Association website. Available at:
...(Click grey area to select URL)
Accessed October 22, 2020.

Hyperopia (farsightedness). University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center website. Available at:
...(Click grey area to select URL)
Accessed October 22, 2020.

Last reviewed September 2020 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Daniel A. Ostrovsky, MD
Last Updated: 5/18/2021

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