Farsightedness (Hyperopia) – What is it?
Farsightedness, or Hyperopia, a common refractive error of the eye, affects approximately 5-10% of the American population. Farsighted individuals are can clearly see objects further away, with closer objects appearing blurry, cloudy, or fuzzy.
Hyperopia is less common than nearsightedness (myopia), however, farsightedness still affects a significant portion of the population. The eye care community has yet to determine farsightedness’ exact causation. Like nearsightedness, there is a general consensus that genetics play a significant role in determining your likelihood of farsightedness.
What Causes Farsightedness?
There are two parts of the eye responsible for refracting light and focusing it at the retina. When the eye doesn’t refract light properly, it can result in a person either being nearsighted or farsighted. Farsightedness is caused by an eye that is shorter, or a cornea that is flatter than normal.
Typically a person who is farsighted will have difficulty seeing objects up close with further objects appearing clear and crisp. Farsightedness will make objects up close look blurry or fuzzy, making it difficult to read books, newspapers, and other objects that are close in your field of vision. Depending upon the severity of your farsightedness, you may have difficulty seeing objects clearly unless they are very far away.
Farsighted Test
If you’re having difficulty reading or seeing objects up close you should schedule a comprehensive eye exam. Usually farsighted individuals can clearly see objects at a distance, so a visual acuity test, or eye chart test, isn’t very reliable for diagnosing farsightedness. Instead, your optometrist will use a refraction test. While testing for farsightedness, your eye doctor will run a series of refraction tests to determine your level of refractive error.
Farsightedness Correction & Treatment
Prescription Eyeglasses and Contacts
Several different options are available for those looking to correct their farsighted vision. The most common of which being prescription glasses and contact lenses. In Vision Optical carries a vast array of customizable frames and glasses that are both stylish and functional.
Corrective eye surgery is a permanent, lens-free solution, that may be available if you’re found to be a good candidate. LASIK is the most common refractive eye surgery. During LASIK, a laser is used to reshape your cornea, allowing your eyes to focus properly. If you’re having problems with farsightedness, contact our eye clinic to set up an appointment. Our expert eye care specialists can help you find out if you would be a good candidate for LASIK or corrective eye surgery.