What Is Hyperopia?
Hyperopia, also known as farsightedness, is a refractive error where light focuses behind the retina instead of on it, making it difficult to see close objects.
Hyperopia can affect people of all ages, though it often becomes more noticeable as the eye’s focusing ability changes over time.
If you’re having trouble reading, using digital devices, or performing other close-up tasks, a comprehensive eye exam can determine if hyperopia is the cause.
Farsightedness
Farsightedness, a more common term for hyperopia, affects daily activities that require clear close-up vision. Those with mild hyperopia may only notice issues after extended periods of close work, while those with higher levels of farsightedness may experience persistent blurriness. Managing this condition can significantly enhance your comfort and quality of life.
Latent Hyperopia
Latent hyperopia is a form of farsightedness that may not immediately cause noticeable symptoms. This is because the eye can initially compensate for the blurred vision, but over time, this extra focus effort can lead to eye strain, headaches, and fatigue.
Bilat Hyperopia
Bilateral hyperopia, or hyperopia in both eyes, requires balanced correction for both eyes to ensure optimal vision. Vision difficulties with bilateral hyperopia may impact depth perception and clarity, especially during close-up activities.
Hyperopia vs. Myopia
While hyperopia (farsightedness) makes close objects appear blurry, myopia (nearsightedness) does the opposite, causing difficulty seeing objects in the distance. Knowing the difference between hyperopia and myopia can help you understand your eye care options.
Hyperopia Symptoms
Hyperopia symptoms can vary depending on the degree of farsightedness. Common symptoms include:
- Blurred vision when focusing on nearby objects.
- Eye strain or discomfort after prolonged close work.
- Headaches or fatigue, especially after reading or screen use.
- Squinting to improve near vision.
If you experience these symptoms, a comprehensive eye exam can determine whether hyperopia or another refractive error affects your vision.
What Causes Hyperopia?
Hyperopia often results from an eye that is too short or a cornea that is too flat, both of which cause light to focus behind the retina. Although hyperopia may have various contributing factors, some of the most common include:
- Genetics: Hyperopia frequently runs in families. If a parent has hyperopia, their children are more likely to develop it.
- Eye Structure: Individuals with shorter-than-average
eyeballs or flatter corneas are more likely to experience farsightedness. - Age: As we age, the eye’s natural lens becomes less flexible, which can make close-up focus more difficult and may exacerbate hyperopia.
Understanding these causes can help you take proactive steps toward managing hyperopia effectively.
Treatment Options
Acuity Optical offers various treatments for hyperopia to suit different lifestyles and vision needs. Our team will help you find the best option to achieve clear, comfortable vision.
Hyperopia Glasses
Glasses are a simple, effective way to correct hyperopia. Designed to adjust how light enters your eyes, hyperopia glasses allow close-up objects to appear clearer. We offer a wide selection of lenses and frames, allowing you to choose glasses that enhance your vision and complement your style.
Contacts for Hyperopia
Contact lenses provide an alternative to glasses, giving you a wider field of view and flexibility for active lifestyles. Acuity Optical provides various types of contact lenses for hyperopia, including daily, bi-weekly, and monthly lenses.
Our optometrists will help you find the perfect fit and type for optimal vision correction.
