What Is Farsightedness?

Farsightedness, also known as hyperopia, is a common refractive error in which light entering the eye focuses behind the retina, rather than directly on it. This occurs because the eye is either too short from front to back, or the cornea has too little curvature.

As a result, people with hyperopia have difficulty seeing objects up close, while distant objects may appear clearer. In some cases, especially in young individuals, the eye’s natural lens can compensate, making symptoms less noticeable—until eye strain sets in.

Causes of Farsightedness

Hyperopia is typically hereditary and present from birth. Its main cause is related to abnormalities in the shape of the eye:

• Shortened axial length: The eyeball is shorter than normal, causing light to focus behind the retina.

• Flat corneal curvature: The front surface of the eye (cornea) is less curved than usual.

• Age-related lens changes: The natural ability to accommodate diminishes over time, revealing or worsening farsightedness.

While it often develops early in life, farsightedness can progress or become more noticeable with age, especially after age 40 due to presbyopia—an age-related decline in near vision.

Symptoms of Farsightedness

The symptoms vary based on the degree of hyperopia and a person’s age. Mild cases may be asymptomatic, while more severe hyperopia can significantly affect daily activities. Common signs include:

• Difficulty focusing on near objects (e.g., reading, using a smartphone)

• Eyestrain or fatigue, especially during tasks requiring close vision

• Headaches, particularly after prolonged reading or screen use

• Squinting to see nearby items clearly

• Burning or aching eyes

• In children, crossed eyes (strabismus) may develop if uncorrected

Diagnosing Hyperopia at Bangkok Eye Hospital

Accurate diagnosis is key to determining the appropriate treatment. At Bangkok Eye Hospital, our eye specialists use a range of technologies to assess your vision, including:

• Refraction testing using autorefractors or phoropters

• Visual acuity testing for both distance and near vision

• Cycloplegic refraction for children or those suspected of accommodating excessively

• Retinoscopy and manual lens comparison

Our experienced ophthalmologists ensure that your prescription is tailored not only to your refractive error but also to your lifestyle and visual demands.

Treatment Options for Farsightedness

There are several effective ways to correct hyperopia, depending on the severity, age, and preference of the patient:

Eyeglasses

• Most common and non-invasive solution

• Use convex lenses to help light focus correctly on the retina

• Suitable for all age groups

• Available in single-vision or multifocal (progressive) options

Contact Lenses

• Provide a wider field of view compared to glasses

• Soft lenses, rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses, or multifocal contacts

• Require proper hygiene and fitting by a specialist

Refractive Surgery (LASIK/PRK)

• Reshapes the cornea to correct how light is focused

• Suitable for mild to moderate hyperopia

• Fast recovery and long-term solution for many patients

Related reading: What Is LASIK Eye Surgery?

Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)

• Recommended for older patients or those with significant presbyopia

• Involves replacing the natural lens with a custom intraocular lens (IOL)

• Similar to cataract surgery but done electively for vision correction

Can Farsightedness Be Prevented?

Since hyperopia is often genetic and structural, it cannot be prevented. However, early diagnosis and appropriate correction can prevent complications such as:

• Eyestrain and chronic headaches

• Learning difficulties in children

• Amblyopia (lazy eye)

• Strabismus (crossed eyes)

Regular eye exams are especially important for children, who may not realize they are having difficulty seeing clearly.

Related Services at Bangkok Eye Hospital

To provide comprehensive care for hyperopia, Bangkok Eye Hospital offers:

• Comprehensive Eye Examinations
  For accurate diagnosis and personalized prescriptions

• Refractive Surgery Center
  Includes LASIK, PRK, and advanced imaging for treatment planning

• Pediatric Eye Care Clinic
  For early detection and treatment of vision problems in children

• Contact Lens Clinic
  Offers expert fittings for patients with hyperopia and presbyopia

• Presbyopia and Aging Eye Center
  For adults over 40 needing correction for both near and distance vision

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is farsightedness the same as presbyopia?
No. Hyperopia is due to an eye shape issue, often present from birth. Presbyopia is age-related and affects the eye’s focusing ability, usually after age 40.

Can children outgrow farsightedness?
Yes, in some cases. As a child’s eye grows, mild hyperopia may correct itself. Regular eye exams are important to monitor changes.

Is LASIK effective for farsightedness?
Yes. LASIK can correct mild to moderate hyperopia by reshaping the cornea to improve light focus.

Do I need to wear glasses all the time if I have hyperopia?
Not necessarily. If your farsightedness is mild and your eyes can compensate, you might only need glasses for reading or computer use.

Can uncorrected hyperopia cause eye problems?
Yes. It can lead to eye strain, headaches, blurred vision, and in children, may increase the risk of amblyopia or crossed eyes.