hyperopia

Hyperopia, also known as farsightedness, is a common refractive error in which distant objects may be seen more clearly than near ones. In people with hyperopia, the eye’s optical system focuses images behind the retina, rather than directly on it. Younger individuals can often compensate with accommodation, but this can cause eye strain or headaches with prolonged close work. In children, uncorrected hyperopia can contribute to reduced near vision, fatigue, or, in some cases, lazy eye (amblyopia).

Causes and mechanisms vary. Hyperopia can result from a shorter-than-average axial length of the eye, a cornea that is flatter than normal, or a lens with insufficient converging power. In some cases, hyperopia is present from birth and persists into adulthood. The degree of hyperopia can influence whether symptoms appear, how easily tasks such as reading are performed, and whether treatment is needed in childhood to prevent vision problems.

Diagnosis is determined through a comprehensive eye examination. This includes refraction tests to measure the eye’s focusing error, often performed with and without cycloplegia (temporary paralysis of accommodation) in children. A dilated eye exam may be used to assess the health of the retina and optic nerve and to rule out other conditions.

Treatment options aim to improve near vision and may include corrective lenses or surgery. Glasses or contact lenses with convex (plus) powers are the most common treatments. In children, correcting hyperopia can prevent amblyopia. Refractive surgery options for adults include LASIK or PRK to steepen the cornea, as well as refractive lens exchange or implantable lenses for higher hyperopia. With appropriate correction, most individuals achieve good functional vision.

Epidemiology and prognosis vary by age and degree of refractive error. Mild hyperopia is common in children and often decreases with growth, while higher degrees may persist into adulthood and require correction. Regular eye exams help monitor changes and guide treatment.