Hyperopia (Farsightedness)
Farsightedness or Hyperopia is a refractive condition that affects about 25% of the population. Farsightedness is when you can see things far away but have more difficulty seeing them up close. Hyperopia can be and usually is harder to diagnose by symptoms compared to nearsightedness especially in children.
Signs and symptoms of farsightedness
The most common symptom is near strain, but can have also near blur, frontal headaches, red eyes, inability to focus and general eye fatigue.
In children the symptoms can be as vague as decreased reading ability, poor grades, and / or a disinterest in reading.
What causes farsightedness?
Just like nearsightedness farsightedness is a genetic trait that is usually “passed” down from your parents. It is when light rays go beyond their focal point in the back of the eye.
Most babies are born farsighted and either stay farsighted or progress towards nearsightedness.
People sometimes confuse hyperopia with presbyopia, which also involves difficulty with seeing up close. But presbyopia has a different cause and occurs after the age of 40.
Farsightedness treatment
Eyeglasses or contact lenses can correct farsightedness to change the way light rays bend into the eyes. If your glasses or contact lens prescription begins with plus numbers, like +2.50, you are farsighted.
Depending on the amount of farsightedness you have, you may need to wear prescription glasses or contacts all the time or you may just need them for up close for reading or computer work.