Did you know that more than 14 million Americans are farsighted? At Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry, we believe that having a comprehensive understanding of this refractive error is one good way to manage this problem and save your vision. Your trusted eye care clinic answers frequently asked questions about this condition.
Q: What Causes Hyperopia?
Farsightedness, also referred to as hyperopia, develops when the distance between the front and back parts of your eyes is shorter than the ideal. This may cause received light rays to go past your retina, instead of focusing directly on it. A too-rigid cornea may also lead to this problem.
Q: What Are the Associated Risk Factors?
As of now, the exact reason behind these structural irregularities remains unknown. However, your expert optometrist explains that heredity is a major risk factor for hyperopia development. For example, if both your parents are farsighted, you’re likely to be as well.
Q: What Are Common Symptoms?
The hallmark symptom of hyperopia is having impaired close-range visual acuity, yet sharp vision for distant objects. You may find it difficult to sew, cook or read books. This may even cause you headaches and eye strain. You may prefer holding your reading materials away from you so you can see better.
Q: How Is It Different From Presbyopia?
You may have noticed that hyperopia and presbyopia, another refractive error, have similar symptoms. While they both cause difficulties seeing nearby objects clearly, their affected structures are different. Presbyopia happens when your lenses lose their flexibility as you age, causing light-focusing problems that lead to impaired vision. Hyperopia, on the other hand, often starts during your younger years and is related to the causes described above.
Q: How Do You Manage Hyperopia?
We may prescribe corrective eyeglasses or contact lenses to help improve your close-range visual acuity. Ortho-K lenses are an effective overnight vision correction option as well. For a lasting solution to your refractive errors, we’ll determine if you’re a good candidate for LASIK eye surgery.
For more information about hyperopia, get in touch with us today by calling one of our locations. You may also complete our form to request an appointment. We see patients in Alexandria, Crystal City, Clarendon, Falls Church and Reston.
