Farsightedness

Overview

Farsightedness, also known as hyperopia, is a prevalent vision condition in which distant objects appear clear, but nearby objects may appear blurry. The severity of hyperopia affects one’s ability to focus. Those with severe hyperopia may only see distant objects clearly, whereas those with milder cases may maintain clear vision for closer objects. Typically present from birth and often hereditary, this condition can be corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses, or surgery.

Farsighted individuals generally find it easier to see objects at a distance, around 6 meters or 20 feet away, but struggle with close-up focus. In cases of significant hyperopia, vision may be blurred at all distances. The shape of the eye, including its axial length and corneal curvature, determines the degree of hyperopia. This condition isn’t a disease but rather an eye focusing disorder, as it affects how the eye processes light. Fortunately, farsightedness is common and easily treatable. If you’re having trouble with close-up vision, consult an optometrist or ophthalmologist who can assess your vision and recommend suitable solutions like eyeglasses, contact lenses, or surgical options based on your needs and preferences.

Symptoms

Symptoms of farsightedness may include:

• Close-by objects could be hazy.
• Squinting is necessary for clear vision.
• Your eyes are aching or burning, and you are experiencing eyestrain.
• After performing close work for a while, such as reading, writing, using a computer, or drawing, you experience general eye irritation or a headache.

If your farsightedness significantly impairs your ability to perform tasks or affects your enjoyment of activities, it’s advisable to consult an eye doctor who can assess the degree of your condition and provide guidance on corrective options. Since vision issues may not always be immediately noticeable, the American Academy of Ophthalmology suggests specific intervals for regular eye exams to ensure timely detection and management of any vision problems.

Routine eye examination guidelines are as follows:

For children:

• At 6 months of age
• At 3 years of age
• Before starting first grade
• Every two years during their school years
• During well-child visits
• Through school or public screenings

For individuals with low risk, no vision correction, and no symptoms:

• Initial examination at age 40.
• Follow-up exams every 2-4 years between ages 40-54.
• Follow-up exams every 1-3 years between ages 55-64.
• Follow-up exams every 1-2 years starting at age 65.

For those at high risk (e.g., glaucoma), requiring vision correction (e.g., glasses/contacts), or with underlying health conditions (e.g., diabetes):

• Follow the recommended examination schedule advised by your ophthalmologist or optometrist.

If vision problems occur, regardless of scheduled exams:

• Promptly schedule an appointment with your eye care professional. Symptoms such as blurred vision may signify the need for prescription adjustments or underlying issues that require attention.

Causes

The eye has two main parts that help focus images:

• Cornea: This is the clear, front surface of your eye, shaped like a dome.
• Lens: It’s a clear structure.

In a normally shaped eye, both the cornea and lens have smooth curvature, like marbles. These smoothly curved surfaces bend incoming light to create a sharp image directly on the retina, which is at the back of your eye.

Refractive Error: When either the cornea or lens isn’t evenly and smoothly curved, it leads to a refractive error.

• Farsightedness: This occurs when your eyeball is shorter than normal or your cornea is too flat. In farsightedness, light focuses behind the retina, causing distant objects to appear blurry. It’s the opposite of nearsightedness.
• Nearsightedness (Myopia): Nearsightedness happens when your eyeball is longer than normal or your cornea is too steeply curved. In this case, light focuses in front of the retina, making distant objects appear blurry.
• Astigmatism: Astigmatism occurs when either the cornea or lens is more curved in one direction than the other. This uneven curvature blurs your vision if left uncorrected.

Risk factors

Farsightedness is believed to have a genetic basis, meaning it can be influenced by the genes inherited from biological parents. Certain genes are involved in shaping the eye’s development, including its length. Researchers are still investigating the precise mechanisms through which genes contribute to farsightedness.

Additionally, some individuals may have a significant degree of farsightedness due to specific genetic disorders like Achromatopsia, Down syndrome, and Fragile X syndrome.