Hyperopia (farsightedness)

Hyperopia occurs due to the shape of the eye and its components; it is not just a function of the aging of the lens, which occurs with presbyopia.

Causes & risk factors

Farsightedness is due to the eye not bending light properly, so it focuses behind the back of the eye or the cornea has too little curvature.

Symptoms

Common signs of hyperopia include difficulty concentrating and maintaining a clear focus on near objects, eye strain, fatigue and/or headaches after close work, aching or burning eyes, and irritability or nervousness after sustained concentration.

Diagnosis

Common vision screenings, like the ones done in schools, often don't detect hyperopia. This is because these individuals can identify the letters on a distance eye chart with little difficulty, but they are not often effectively tested at near distance. However, a comprehensive eye examination will include the necessary testing to diagnose hyperopia.

Treatment

If needed, a doctor of optometry can offer treatment options. In mild cases of farsightedness, your eyes may be able to compensate without corrective lenses. In other cases, a doctor of optometry prescribes eyeglasses or contact lenses that alter the way the light enters the eyes, allowing you to clearly see close objects.