Farsightedness (Hyperopia)

Farsightedness, or hyperopia, is a common vision condition where distant objects are seen more clearly than those that are close. It occurs when the eyeball is too short or the cornea has too little curvature, causing light to focus behind the retina instead of directly on it. Hyperopia can be mild or severe and may require corrective lenses to help bring nearby objects into proper focus.

Hyperopia affects your ability to see nearby objects clearly. People with farsightedness may experience blurry vision when reading, using a phone, or doing close-up work. In more severe cases, even distant vision may become unclear. The eyes may compensate by over-focusing, which can lead to eye strain, fatigue, and headaches, especially after prolonged periods of near work or screen time.

• Hyperopia, or farsightedness, occurs when the eye focuses images behind the retina instead of directly on it.

• This happens due to an eyeball that is too short from front to back.

• Another cause is when the cornea or lens has less curvature than normal, reducing its focusing power.

• Genetics can also play a role, as hyperopia often runs in families.

• Aging can contribute, as the eye’s lens loses flexibility over time, affecting focus.

• Blurry vision when viewing nearby objects.

• Eye strain or discomfort during reading or screen time.

• Frequent headaches or tired eyes.

• In children: squinting, rubbing eyes, poor school performance.

• Symptoms worsen after prolonged near tasks.

Many children are born with mild hyperopia, which often improves as their eyes grow. However, if significant farsightedness remains untreated, it can lead to vision problems like lazy eye (amblyopia) or crossed eyes (strabismus). Routine pediatric eye exams are crucial to detect and treat farsightedness early. Glasses are typically prescribed to help children see clearly and support proper visual development.

• Corrective eyeglasses or contact lenses help refocus light on the retina.

• LASIK or PRK surgery may be considered for long-term correction in adults.

• Regular eye exams ensure prescriptions are current and vision changes are monitored.

• Early treatment reduces eye strain and prevents worsening of vision.

• Children usually start with glasses; surgical options are typically for adults only.

There’s no guaranteed way to prevent hyperopia, as it is usually a genetic condition related to the shape of the eye. However, early detection through routine eye exams is the best way to manage it effectively. Maintaining good eye health with a balanced diet, proper lighting, limiting screen time, and wearing prescribed eyewear can help reduce eye strain and support overall visual comfort.