Hypermetropia

Hypermetropia (also known as farsightedness or longsightedness) is a common type of refractive error where distant objects may be seen more clearly than objects that are near. However, people experience hypermetropia 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.

Causes

Hypermetropia is the result of the visual image being focused behind the retina rather than directly on it. It occurs when the physical length of the eye is shorter than the optical length. It can also be caused by the cornea and lens not being perfectly smooth and clear.

Symptoms

The symptoms of hypermetropia can vary. Some people may not experience any symptoms, while others may have significant difficulty with their vision. Common symptoms include difficulty concentrating and maintaining a clear focus on near objects, eye strain, fatigue and/or headaches after close work, aching or burning eyes, irritability or nervousness after sustained concentration.

Diagnosis

A comprehensive eye examination by an optometrist can diagnose hypermetropia. The exam will also determine the degree of hypermetropia, which is a measure of how much the eye's focusing power needs to be corrected.

Treatment

Hypermetropia can be corrected with eyeglasses or contact lenses. Another treatment option is refractive surgery, where the cornea is reshaped to correct the refractive error.

See also

• Myopia
• Astigmatism
• Presbyopia

Hypermetropia Resources
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