Farsightedness: Information and Treatment Options

As we grow older, our ability to see close-up objects deteriorates. But some people suffer from hyperopia, or farsightedness, for most or all of their lives. This condition tends to run in families. What is farsightedness, and what can be done to correct it?

Farsightedness occurs then a person can see distant objects more clearly than nearby objects. If you can pick out details on things that are far away but have trouble reading words on a page when they are near your face, you might be farsighted.

Farsightedness is caused by misshapen corneas. When the eyeball is shorter than average, the focal point of incoming light rests somewhere behind the retina rather than on its surface. This is what causes poor near vision in relation to distance vision.

Patients with hyperopia have options. The most common treatment for this condition is the use of prescription glasses or contact lenses. If those are undesirable to the patient, refractive surgery might be an alternative. Through LASIK or other laser-assisted surgeries, corneas can be reshaped to give them a normal focal point.

For patients with mild to moderate farsightedness, conductive keratoplasty has proven to be an effective surgical solution. This technique uses regulated pulses of radiofrequency energy to shape the cornea. CK is a quick and painless procedure that brings dramatic results to farsighted patients.

If you suspect that you may be farsighted, make an appointment for a thorough eye exam. Your ophthalmologist will be able to determine if your suspicions are correct. They will also be able to recommend the course of treatment that’s best for you.