Hypermetropie

Hypermetropie, also called hyperopia in English, is a refractive error in which distant objects are seen more clearly than nearby ones. In a relaxed eye, the focal point falls behind the retina, causing blurred near vision.

Most cases occur because the eye is too short relative to its optical power, or the cornea or lens is too weak to bend light sufficiently. Hypermetropie can be present at birth and often decreases as the eye grows during childhood; in many adults accommodation can compensate for mild hyperopia, while reducing near vision as accommodation wanes with age.

Symptoms include blurred close work, eyestrain, and headaches after reading or other near tasks. In children, significant hyperopia can contribute to accommodative esotropia or amblyopia if not identified and corrected early.

Diagnosis is made through a comprehensive eye examination. Refraction tests, often with cycloplegia, measure the true refractive error and help distinguish hypermetropia from other conditions such as myopia.

Treatment depends on severity, age, and vision needs. Mild hyperopia in adults may not require correction. In children, corrective glasses or contact lenses are commonly prescribed to prevent amblyopia and strabismus. Refractive surgery may reduce hyperopia in selected adults, with options including laser procedures or lens-based interventions, depending on ocular health and corneal thickness.

Prognosis varies with severity and age. Hypermetropie is a common early-life refractive error that often diminishes as the eye grows, though higher degrees can persist and require ongoing monitoring. Regular eye exams are important to detect changes and ensure appropriate correction.