Hyperopia, commonly known as farsightedness, occurs when the eyeball is too short or the cornea is too flat, causing light to focus behind the retina. This makes both close-up objects and distant objects appear blurry. Mild hyperopia may not cause significant problems, but higher degrees can lead to eye strain, headaches especially for tasks like reading, using a smartphone, or working on the computer.
Hyperopia can be due to genetics, if one or both parents are hyperopic, a child is more likely to develop it. Mild hyperopia may also be present at birth, especially when the child's eyeball is small. In many cases, as the eye grows larger and develops, hyperopia may decrease.
Hyperopia can be easily corrected by the use of prescription glasses. Glasses work by redirecting light so that it focuses properly on the retina, allowing for clear vision. Wearing glasses does not increase your hyperopia, they are an optical aid to help you see clearer. An increase in hyperopia can be a sign of natural aging or may be associated with certain medical or eye conditions.
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