Farsightedness is a relatively common condition, affecting approximately 10-30% of the world’s population (depending on the age and location of the individuals being studied). The occurrence of farsightedness increases with age, with at least half of all persons over the age of 65 having some degree of farsightedness.
Farsightedness (hyperopia) is a common vision condition in which you can see distant objects clearly, but objects nearby may be blurry. The degree of your farsightedness influences your focusing ability. People with severe farsightedness may see only objects a great distance away, while those with mild farsightedness may be able to see objects that are closer.
Farsightedness usually is present at birth and tends to run in families. You can correct this condition with eyeglasses or contact lenses. Another treatment option is surgery.
Farsightedness may mean nearby objects may appear blurry, you need to squint to see clearly, you have eyestrain, including burning eyes, and aching in or around the eyes and you experience general eye discomfort or a headache after a prolonged interval of conducting close tasks, such as reading, writing, computer work or drawing
Your eye has two parts that focus images the cornea is the clear, dome-shaped front surface of your eye and the lens is a clear structure of the size and shape of an M&M’s candy.
In a typically shaped eye, each of these focusing elements has a perfectly smooth curvature, like the surface of a marble. A cornea and lens with such curvature bend (refract) all incoming light to make a sharply focused image directly on the retina, at the back of your eye.
If your cornea or lens isn’t evenly and smoothly curved, light rays aren’t refracted properly, and you have a refractive error. Farsightedness occurs when your eyeball is shorter than usual, or your cornea is curved too little. The effect is the opposite of nearsightedness. In adults with farsightedness, both near and distant objects can be blurred.
Farsightedness can be associated with several problems, like some children with farsightedness may develop crossed eyes. Specially designed eyeglasses that correct for part or the entire farsightedness may effectively treat this problem.
Uncorrected farsightedness can affect your quality of life. You might not be able to perform a task as well as you wish. And your limited vision may detract from your enjoyment of day-to-day activities. Uncorrected farsightedness may cause you to squint or strain your eyes to maintain focus. It can lead to eyestrain and headaches.
Your safety and that of others may be jeopardized if you have an uncorrected vision problem. It could be especially dangerous if you are driving a car or operating heavy equipment. The cost of corrective lenses, eye exams, and medical treatments can add up, especially with a chronic condition such as farsightedness.
The goal of treating farsightedness is to help focus light on the retina through the use of corrective lenses or refractive surgery.
If you are suffering from farsightedness and its many symptoms, it’s worth it to investigate your options. There is no reason to suffer in silence!
Until Next Time,
Team Doctor ASKY!