Farsightedness (Hyperopia)

Overview of Farsightedness

This is a common vision problem that can affect one or both eyes. With it, light isn't focused properly on the retina. Instead, the focus is somewhere behind the retina. For young people with farsightedness, things up close may look blurry, but things that are far away look sharp. After age 40, both near and far vision can become blurry.

What Causes Farsightedness?

Well, it can happen if the shape of your eyeball is shorter than normal. It may also be linked to a poorly-shaped cornea or lens. You can be born with farsightedness, and it can run in families.

Symptoms of Farsightedness

If you have farsightedness, your near vision may be blurry. You may find that you have to squint your eyes to see clearly. This is uncomfortable, and it can cause headaches.

Treatment of Farsightedness

Farsightedness is treated with eyeglasses or contact lenses. It's also treated with laser surgery. Your doctor will let you know the best way to treat your vision problem.