Hyperopia, also known as farsightedness, is a common refractive disorder of the eye. People who suffer from farsightedness find that they can focus clearly on objects in the distance, but have trouble seeing objects in their near vision field. Hyperopia is mostly harmless, but some forms of farsightedness are progressive and can lead to more serious conditions.
What causes Hyperopia?
Most cases of hyperopia are evident in the younger years, though there is an age-related variety known as presbyopia, or age-related farsightedness. All sufferers of hyperopia have difficulty making out details up close. This symptom can manifest as a tendency to hold books and papers at arms' length to read them. All cases of hyperopia tend to worsen with age due to the progressive rigidity of the lens of the eye.
Farsightedness is thought to be an inherited condition. That is, if you have a direct relative who is farsighted, chances are good that you will be, too. Farsighted people have eyes that are shorter than usual. This irregularity in the shape of the eye interferes with the way light is refracted. Hyperopia causes incoming light to focus behind the retina rather than directly on it.
How can Hyperopia be treated?
Eye exams are the best way to detect and diagnose farsightedness. But regular examinations aren't thorough enough to detect the disorder. Tell your doctor about your concerns and request a refractive assessment. This will measure your degree of hyperopia and tell the doctor how best to progress with treatment.
Fortunately, hyperopia is a highly treatable condition. It can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or
LASIK surgery. If you think you might be farsighted, make an appointment with a
San Diego LASIK surgeon. They will give you a thorough examination, including a refraction assessment to determine your degree of farsightedness.