Optometry: Open Access
Open Access

Hyperopia, also known as farsightedness, is a common refractive error that affects the way light enters the eye, making it difficult to focus on nearby objects. In a person with normal vision, light entering the eye is properly focused onto the retina, where the image is processed and sent to the brain. However, in someone with hyperopia, the light focuses behind the retina rather than directly on it. This occurs because the eyeball is too short, or the cornea, the eye's front surface, is too flat, preventing the light from focusing properly on the retina. Individuals with mild hyperopia may not experience noticeable symptoms, while those with moderate to severe cases may struggle with blurry vision, particularly when performing close-up tasks like reading, writing, or using a smartphone. Headaches, eye strain, and difficulty concentrating on near objects are common signs of hyperopia. Although it is often present at birth, hyperopia can also develop over time and may become more noticeable in middle age as the eye's ability to focus on near objects decreases [1]. Hyperopia is typically diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination, including visual acuity tests and refraction assessments, which help determine the extent of the condition. Treatment for hyperopia generally involves corrective lenses—either glasses or contact lenses—that help focus light correctly onto the retina. In some cases, refractive surgery like LASIK may be recommended for individuals seeking a more permanent solution [2].

Causes of hyperopia

Hyperopia primarily results from abnormalities in the eye’s shape or size. The two main causes are:

Shorter eyeball: If the eyeball is too short from front to back, light entering the eye will be focused behind the retina, leading to farsightedness [3].

Flat cornea: If the cornea’s curvature is not steep enough, the eye won’t bend the incoming light adequately, also causing it to focus behind the retina.

In addition to these structural factors, hyperopia can also develop due to genetics. Children may inherit the condition from their parents, and it can sometimes change as a person ages. Hyperopia is most commonly seen in younger people, but it may become more noticeable in adulthood as the eye’s focusing ability, called accommodation, decreases with age [4,5].

Symptoms of hyperopia

The symptoms of hyperopia can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Common signs include:

Blurred vision: Difficulty seeing objects up close, such as when reading, writing, or using a smartphone [6 ].

Eye strain: Prolonged activities requiring near vision may cause eye fatigue or discomfort.

Headaches: Eye strain and excessive effort to focus on near objects can lead to tension headaches.

Difficulty with close-up tasks: People with hyperopia may have trouble reading fine print, threading a needle, or performing other tasks that require focusing on objects at a close distance [7].

Children with hyperopia may have difficulty reading and concentrating in school. They may also exhibit signs of eye strain, such as rubbing their eyes frequently or squinting to see better. However, children with mild hyperopia may not show symptoms, and the condition may not be detected until a routine eye exam [8].

Treatment options for hyperopia

The main treatment for hyperopia is corrective lenses, although other options are available for those who may not want to rely on glasses or contacts. Treatment options include:

Glasses: Prescription glasses are the most common and simplest solution to correct hyperopia. They work by altering the path of light entering the eye, allowing it to focus directly on the retina.

Contact lenses: Contact lenses are another popular option, providing the same corrective function as glasses but offering a more natural field of vision.

Refractive surgery: For those who wish to reduce or eliminate their dependence on glasses or contacts, refractive surgeries such as LASIK or PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) may be an option. These surgeries reshape the cornea to allow light to focus properly on the retina [9].

Although refractive surgery is effective for many people with hyperopia, it may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with severe or complex cases. A thorough evaluation by an eye care professional is necessary to determine whether surgery is appropriate.

Prevention and management

While hyperopia is largely influenced by genetics and structural factors, there are steps you can take to manage the condition and reduce its impact on daily life:

Routine eye exams: Regular eye exams can help detect hyperopia early, allowing for timely intervention before the condition worsens.

Proper Lighting: Ensuring adequate lighting while reading or performing tasks that require near vision can reduce eye strain [10].

Take breaks: If you’re engaging in close-up activities for extended periods, take breaks to rest your eyes and reduce fatigue.

Use corrective lenses as needed: Wearing prescription glasses or contact lenses can help minimize the effects of hyperopia and prevent discomfort.

Conclusion

Hyperopia is a common refractive error that affects many individuals, particularly those who have difficulty seeing objects up close. It is caused by structural abnormalities in the eye, such as a short eyeball or a flat cornea, which result in light being focused behind the retina. While hyperopia can often be managed with corrective lenses, it can also be treated through refractive surgery for those who prefer a more permanent solution. Regular eye exams, along with proper eye care, are essential for maintaining good vision and minimizing the impact of hyperopia on daily life. If left uncorrected, hyperopia can lead to significant eye strain, headaches, and difficulty performing tasks that require near vision, so early detection and treatment are key to ensuring optimal vision health.

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