Hypermetropia - Hyperopia - definition

Hypermetropia ( hyperopia) also known as farsightedness is a common type of refractive error where distant objects may be seen more clearly than objects that are near. However, people experience farsightedness differently. Some people may not notice any problems with their vision, especially when they are young. For people with significant hypermetropia, vision can be blurry for objects at any distance, near or far.

Common signs and symptoms of hyperopia (hypermetropia)

Hypermetropia (hyperopia) symptoms vary from person to person. Your eye care professional can help you understand and how the condition affects you.

• Headaches
• Eye strain (headaches, pulling sensation, burning)
• Squinting
• Difficulty seeing up close
• Blurred distance vision (occurs with higher amounts of hyperopia)
• Eye fatigue when reading

How does hypermetropia develop?

Hypermetropia develops in eyes that focus images behind the retina instead of on the retina, which can result in blurred vision. This occurs when the eyeball is too short, which prevents incoming light from focusing directly on the retina. It may also be caused by an abnormal shape of the cornea or lens.

Hyperopia often starts in early childhood. But normal growth corrects the problem. If a child is still a bit farsighted when the eye has stopped growing (at around 9 years of age), the eye can usually adjust to make up for the problem. This allows the child to see clearly. But as we age, our eyes can no longer adjust as well, and hypermetropia becomes more obvious.

Hyperopia often runs in families. In rare cases, some eye diseases such as retinopathy and eye tumors can lead to farsightedness. So can a problem with the lens of the eye.

Who is at risk for hypermetropia?

Hypermetropia can affect both children and adults. It affects about 5 to 10 percent of population whose parents are farsighted may also be more likely to get the condition.

Young people with mild to moderate hyperopia are often able to see clearly because their natural lens can adjust, or accommodate to increase the eye’s focusing ability. However, as the eye gradually loses the ability to accommodate (beginning at about 40 years of age), blurred vision from hyperopia often becomes more apparent.

How is hyperopia diagnosed?

An eye care professional can diagnose hyperopia and other refractive errors during a comprehensive dilated eye examination. People with hypermetropia often visit their eye care professional with complaints of visual discomfort or blurred vision.

Hypermetropia correction and treatment

Hyperopia (hypermetropia or farsightedness) can be corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses, or surgery. Eyeglasses are the simplest and safest way to  hyperopia correction. Your eye care professional can prescribe lenses that will help correct the problem and help you see your best.

Contact Lenses work by becoming the first refractive surface for light rays entering the eye, causing a more precise refraction or focus. In many cases, contact lenses may provide clearer vision, wider field of vision, and greater comfort. They are a safe and effective option if fitted and used properly. However, contact lenses may not be the best option for everyone.

If you certain eye conditions you may not be able to wear contact lenses. Discuss this with your eye care professional.

Refractive eye surgery aims to permanently change the shape of the cornea which will improve refractive vision. Eye surgery can decrease or eliminate dependency on wearing eyeglasses and contact lenses. There are many types of refractive surgeries and surgical options should be discussed with an eye care professional.