Hyperopia (Farsightedness)

Hyperopia, commonly known as farsightedness, is a refractive error where distant objects are seen more clearly than nearby ones. This occurs when the eyeball is too short or the cornea has too little curvature, causing light to focus behind the retina. While mild hyperopia may not require correction, more significant cases can impact daily tasks such as reading or computer work.

Hyperopia makes it difficult to focus on nearby objects, leading to blurry vision up close while distance vision often remains sharp. The eyes may compensate by over-focusing, which can strain the eye muscles. Over time, this extra effort can cause discomfort, especially during tasks like reading, writing, or using digital screens.

What Causes Farsightedness?

• Shortened eyeball length: When the eye is slightly shorter from front to back than average, incoming light focuses behind the retina instead of directly on it, making near objects appear blurry.

• Flatter-than-normal cornea or lens: A cornea or crystalline lens with too little curvature bends light rays insufficiently, shifting the focal point behind the retina.

• Age-related lens hardening (presbyopia): From the early 40s onward, the eye’s lens gradually stiffens and loses focusing power, increasing farsightedness for many adults.

• Genetic predisposition: Family history often plays a role; inherited structural traits of the eye can predispose children to hyperopia.

• Rare systemic conditions: Certain disorders (e.g., small-eye syndrome, diabetes-related swelling) can alter eye shape or lens clarity, producing or worsening farsightedness.

Yes, hyperopia often runs in families. If one or both parents are farsighted, their children are more likely to develop the condition. Genetic factors can influence the shape and size of the eye, which directly impacts how light is focused. Early eye exams are essential to detect and manage hereditary hyperopia in children.

• Blurred vision when focusing on nearby objects, while distant scenes stay relatively sharp

• Eyestrain or a burning sensation after reading, sewing, or using a phone or computer for more than a few minutes

• Frequent headaches that start around the temples or brow after close-up tasks

• Squinting or partially closing the eyelids to try to sharpen near vision, especially in low light

• Feeling unusually tired after short periods of detailed work, signaling overworked focusing muscles

• Difficulty maintaining concentration on small text, leading to skipped words or lines during reading

Hyperopia can cause frequent eye strain and headaches, particularly after prolonged reading or screen use. The eye muscles work harder to bring close objects into focus, leading to discomfort. Untreated hyperopia may also cause a pulling sensation around the eyes and general visual fatigue throughout the day.

• Prescription eyeglasses with convex (+D) lenses bring near objects into focus quickly; they’re the simplest, safest first-line option for most ages.

• Soft or rigid gas-permeable contact lenses provide a wider field of view than glasses and can correct higher hyperopic powers.

• Multifocal or accommodating intraocular lens (IOL) surgery replaces the eye’s natural lens, giving lasting correction—often chosen when cataracts are also present.

• Laser procedures (LASIK, PRK, SMILE) steepen the cornea’s center, enabling clear near and distance vision in suitable adult candidates.

Refractive surgeries like LASIK or PRK can permanently correct hyperopia by reshaping the cornea. These options may suit adults with stable prescriptions and healthy eyes. While not everyone is a candidate, a consultation with an eye specialist can help determine if surgery is safe and effective for your vision needs.