Hyperopia (Long-sightedness)

Hyperopia is a refractive error where close objects appear blurred and the eyes have to work harder to focus, especially for near tasks.

Common symptoms

Blurred near vision, eye strain, tired eyes, headaches after reading, and difficulty focusing on close work.

Description

Hyperopia, or long-sightedness, occurs when light focuses behind the retina rather than directly on it. This can be because the eyeball is slightly shorter than average or the cornea is not curved enough.

Younger people with hyperopia can often compensate by focusing harder, and may not notice any blur. As the natural focusing ability of the eye reduces with age, symptoms such as tired eyes and blurred near vision become more noticeable.

Hyperopia is usually corrected with glasses or contact lenses. Refractive surgery is available for some adults. If children have high hyperopia it can increase the risk of a squint or amblyopia, so early eye tests are important.