Hyperopia - Farsightedness
Hyperopia (Farsightedness) or difficulty seeing up close is a refractive error where distant objects easily focused than near. People with hyperopia have good distance vision, but poor near vision. Hyperopia is the opposite of Nearsightedness (Myopia).
In adults with farsightedness, both near and distant objects can be blurred.
Causes of Hyperopia
Farsightedness usually is present at birth and tends to run in families. Hyperopia can affect both children and adults. It affects about 5 to 10 percent of Americans. People whose parents have hyperopia may also be more likely to get the condition.
Hyperopia Symptoms
Symptoms of hyperopia may mean that nearby objects appear blurry. People tend to squint to see clearly. Some people may experience eyestrain, including burning eyes, and aching in or around the eyes, general eye discomfort or a headache after a prolonged interval of conducting close tasks, such as reading, writing, computer work or drawing.
Hyperopia in Children
It is normal for younger children to be hyperopic. If hyperopic above a certain threshold it may cause problems with focusing. Some children with farsightedness may develop crossed eyes. Specially designed eyeglasses that correct for part or all of the farsightedness may effectively treat this problem. Excessive amounts of hyperopia or uneven amounts of hyperopia between both eyes may cause a lazy eye, also called amblyopia. This can, if untreated, cause permanent vision loss.
Treatment For Hyperopia
Hyperopia - Farsightedness can be corrected with eyeglasses or contact lenses. Another treatment option is refractive surgery, such as LASIK.
Other Refractive Errors: