Farsightedness, also medically known as hyperopia, is a common vision condition affecting millions of people worldwide. It is specifically a refractive error that renders individuals the ability to see distant objects clearly while having difficulty in focusing on close-up objects. Technically speaking, the eyeball of an individual who suffers from farsightedness is slightly shorter than normal, which causes light to improperly focus behind the retina, rather than directly on it, causing blurred vision for nearby objects.
An individual may be born with this condition, or it might develop over time, typically with aging. Farsightedness can cause various symptoms that impact one's daily life and routines, leading to a reduction in the overall quality of life. It's crucial to recognize the symptoms of farsightedness and understand how it can be treated.
Farsightedness Symptoms and Causes
Farsightedness might not always be evident, particularly in children and young adults, whose eyes can often adjust to the refractive error. However, with age, the eye loses its flexibility causing the symptoms to become more noticeable. The most commonly experienced symptoms of farsightedness are:
- Difficulty focusing on close objects
- Blurry vision while reading, writing or performing tasks close at hand
- Aching around the eyes, or eye discomfort
- Straining the eyes or extreme exhaustion after performing tasks at a close range
Genetically, if your parents are farsighted, you're more likely to be as well. Conditions such as diabetes, tumor or other eye diseases could also increase the risk. Additionally, factors such as the eyeball's size, the shape of the cornea and lens, and the length of the eye can also cause this condition.
Farsightedness Treatment
Farsightedness can be diagnosed in a routine eye examination that includes a refraction assessment and an eye health exam. Eye-care professionals correct this condition with prescribed eyeglasses, contact lenses or certain types of refractive surgery.
Eyeglasses are the simplest and safest way to correct farsightedness. Your optometrist can prescribe lenses that will correct the defect in your eye's ability to focus. Contact lenses are another option and can provide a broader field of vision. However, they must be worn with care, keeping in mind all the safety tips to avoid infections or other eye diseases.
Refractive surgery is another effective treatment for farsightedness. Procedures such as LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) and PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) involve reshaping your cornea with a laser so that the light entering the eyes can be focused properly.
While hyperopia cannot be prevented, maintaining a diligent yearly eye exam schedule can help identify any changes in your vision and its appropriate treatment options at an early stage.
In conclusion, farsightedness or hyperopia is not an insurmountable condition. With the right care and treatment, anyone dealing with it can continue to live a fulfilling life without any significant disruption or constraint. Therefore, if you suspect that you may have this condition, it is crucial to consult an eyecare professional who can provide appropriate advice and treatment plans.
