Hyperopia

Your vision is the result of refracted light rays as they pass through the cornea and the lens. The refracted light is then focused on the retina, which converts the light-rays into signals. The optic nerve sends these signals to the brain, which interprets them into the images we see.

Unfortunately, the human eye is far from perfect. Many patients we treat at Evergreen Eye Care suffer from refractive errors, which occur when the shape of the eye prevents light from properly focusing on the retina. Hyperopia, also known as farsightedness, is one of the most common types of refractive errors.

What is Hyperopia?

Patients with hyperopia see objects at a distance more easily than they see objects that are near. For instance, patients with severe hyperopia may struggle to do simple tasks like reading. Others may not notice any problems with their vision until they are older. In other words, hyperopia is a variation, rather than a disease. The way it affects your vision will likely change as you age. However, hyperopia often starts in early childhood.

What Causes Hyperopia?

Hyperopia occurs when the eyeball is too short, the cornea is not curved enough, or the lens sits farther back than normal. These factors cause refracted light to focus behind the retina instead of on it. In many cases, hyperopia is hereditary.

For patients over 40, farsightedness is usually the result of presbyopia, a condition that occurs when our eyes naturally lose the ability to focus on close objects. As presbyopia worsens, you may also have trouble seeing objects in the distance.

How Do We Diagnose Hyperopia?

Drs. Zamberlan and Horrocks can diagnose hyperopia during a comprehensive eye examination. The exam typically includes questions about your eyesight and possible symptoms. We may also dilate your pupils. Tests that are commonly used include tonometry, ophthalmoscopy, and the slit lamp exam.

You may have hyperopia if you exhibit the following symptoms:

• Headaches and eyestrain
• Squinting
• Blurred vision of close objects
• Blurred vision at night
• Trouble reading

Treatment of Hyperopia

Eyeglasses are the most common and simple way to correct hyperopia. Our eye care professionals can determine which prescription will help you see your best. We also offer a wide variety of stylish and corrective frames and lenses.

Many patients find contact lenses to be more convenient. Contact lenses help the light refract more precisely onto the retina. In many cases, contact lenses provide a sharper, wider field of vision and great comfort. Our job is to help ensure your contacts are fit and used properly. Unfortunately, contacts may not be for everybody. Talk with Drs. Zamberlan and Horrocks to find out if contacts are right for you!

Some patients opt to receive corrective refractive surgery. One of the most common surgeries is known as LASIK. LASIK stands for “laser-assisted in situ keratomileuses.” Refractive surgery is designed to permanently change the shape of your cornea and improve your vision. It can reduce or eliminate your dependency on eyeglasses and contacts. There are several types of surgeries, which we will discuss with you during your consultation.

Schedule a Consultation Appointment

If you think you may have hyperopia, call 360-573-3937 to schedule your consultation appointment!