Farsightedness (Long-sightedness/hyperopia): Causes, Signs, Symptoms, and how it differs from Age-Related Near Vision Loss (Presbyopia).

A picture of a farsighted lady corrected with glasses.

Farsightedness, also known as long-sightedness, hyperopia, or hypermetropia, is a condition where the eye focuses light behind the retina, causing blurry vision mostly  for nearby objects. It’s a common refractive error that affects both children and adults. A person with hyperopia is called a hyperope. Hyperopes may experience blurred vision at both near and far distances, although near vision is usually more affected. Most infants are born with mild hyperopia, which often improves as they grow older, but in some cases, it persists into adulthood, leading to eye strain, headaches, and the need for corrective lenses.

Understanding the basics of farsightedness helps you spot the signs early and take steps to correct it. In this article, we dive deep into the causes, signs, symptoms, and treatment options of farsightedness—and briefly compare it to a similar but age-specific condition called presbyopia.

What causes Farsightedness?

Farsightedness is primarily caused by a shortened eyeball or a flatter-than-normal cornea. Because of this shape, light entering the eye does not focus directly on the retina—the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye—but rather behind it, leading to blurry near vision.

This condition can be inherited and often shows up in childhood. However, many people don’t realize they have it until they experience noticeable symptoms, especially during activities that require close focus like reading or writing.

Are all babies born farsighted?

Yes, most infants are born with a natural degree of farsightedness. This occurs because their eyes are still developing and are shorter than adult eyes, causing light to focus behind the retina. As the child grows, the eyeball lengthens and the vision often corrects itself through a process called emmetropization. Mild hyperopia at birth is normal and usually not a cause for concern unless it persists or is severe. Seeking medical advice is always the best thing to do.

 

Signs and Symptoms of Farsightedness

The most common symptoms include:

• Blurry vision for nearby objects
• Eye strain or discomfort after prolonged close-up work
• Frequent headaches, especially after reading or using a screen
• Squinting to see clearly
• Difficulty concentrating on tasks that require near vision

In children, farsightedness can sometimes go unnoticed because they can overcompensate using their natural focusing power. However, untreated hyperopia in kids may lead to problems like lazy eye (amblyopia) or crossed eyes (strabismus).

Outcomes of Uncorrected Farsightedness

1. Amblyopia (Lazy Eye). Significant or unequal hyperopia in children can cause the brain to ignore input from the weaker eye, leading to amblyopia.

2. Strabismus (Crossed Eyes). In children, high hyperopia can cause the eyes to turn inward (esotropia) as they try to focus, especially during near tasks.

3. Poor academic performance. Undiagnosed Farsightedness can make reading and concentrating difficult for children, affecting learning and school performance.

4. Reduced quality of life: Blurred vision, discomfort, and headaches can interfere with daily activities and reduce overall visual comfort.

5. Increased risk of falls in older individuals: Uncorrected hyperopia in elderly individuals can affect depth perception and increase the risk of accidents.

Diagnosis of farsightedness 

Hyperopia is diagnosed through a full eye exam that includes visual acuity testing, retinoscopy, and refraction. In children and young adults, a cycloplegic refraction is often used — special eye drops relax the eye’s focusing muscles to reveal any hidden farsightedness. This ensures an accurate diagnosis and proper prescription. The optometrist may also check eye alignment and overall eye health during the exam.

Treatment Options for Farsightedness

Farsightedness is very manageable, and there are several effective treatment options:

1. Eyeglasses: The most common and simplest solution is a plus (+) lens prescription used to bend light correctly onto the retina.

2. Contact Lenses: A great alternative for those who prefer not to wear glasses. Soft contact lenses are often prescribed for mild to moderate hyperopia.

3. Refractive Surgery: Procedures like LASIK or PRK can reshape the cornea permanently, reducing or even eliminating the need for glasses or contacts in some people.

4. Vision Therapy: For some children, eye exercises and visual training can help the eyes work better together, especially if farsightedness is affecting coordination or learning.

Farsightedness vs. Presbyopia (age-related Near vision loss)

Although both conditions affect near vision, they are not the same.

• Farsightedness (Hyperopia) is typically genetic and can occur at any age, even in childhood.
• Presbyopia is an age-related condition that usually begins after age 40. It’s caused by a loss of flexibility in the eye’s lens, not by the shape of the eye itself.
• Someone with farsightedness may have blurry near vision throughout life, while someone with presbyopia starts experiencing near vision issues as they age, even if they previously had perfect vision.

Final Thoughts

Farsightedness is more than just a blurry page or screen—it can affect productivity, learning, and quality of life if left untreated. The good news? With routine eye exams and the right corrective solutions, you can manage it easily and keep your vision clear and comfortable.

If you or your child are experiencing symptoms of hyperopia, don’t wait. Book an eye check-up with an Optometrist today and take the first step toward better vision.