Farsightedness (Hyperopia)
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 ExaminationsFor accurate diagnosis and personalized prescriptions
Refractive Surgery CenterIncludes LASIK, PRK, and advanced imaging for treatment planning
Pediatric Eye Care ClinicFor early detection and treatment of vision problems in children
Contact Lens ClinicOffers expert fittings for patients with hyperopia and presbyopia
Presbyopia and Aging Eye CenterFor 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.