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Hyperopia
(Long-sightedness)

What is Hyperopia?

Hyperopia, or long-sightedness, is a refractive error in which distant objects are seen clearly, but near objects appear blurry. This happens because the eyeball is too short, or the cornea is too flat, causing light to focus behind the retina instead of directly on it.

While hyperopia is common in young children, where the eye’s focusing ability is more flexible, significant hyperopia can lead to blurry near vision and cause difficulty focusing on tasks such as reading, writing, or using devices. For children, this may manifest as poor reading ability, eye strain, and headaches.

What Causes Hyperopia?

Hyperopia occurs when the eyeball is shorter than normal or the cornea is too flat. This causes light to focus behind the eye instead of on the nerve cells (retina), causing things up close to be blurry.

Prevalence of Hyperopia

Hyperopia affects a significant portion of the population, with many people not experiencing noticeable symptoms early on. It is more commonly seen in children but can affect adults as well. Studies show that nearly 20-25% of the global population has some degree of hyperopia. Left untreated, significant hyperopia can cause discomfort and potentially affect learning and focus, especially in children.

Genetic Risk Factors for Hyperopia

Just like myopia, hyperopia can run in families. If one or both parents are long-sighted, there’s a higher likelihood that their children will develop hyperopia as well. Genetic factors play a large role in determining the size and shape of the eye, which affects how light is focused.

Lifestyle Risk Factors for Hyperopia

While hyperopia is primarily caused by the eye’s shape, prolonged close-up activities such as reading, screen time, and other near-vision tasks can strain the eyes and make the effects of hyperopia more noticeable. Although being outside and taking breaks can’t directly prevent hyperopia, it helps reduce the overall strain on the eyes, especially for children who spend a lot of time on near-vision tasks.

Early Detection of Hyperopia

Since hyperopia can cause discomfort, headaches, and difficulty concentrating on near tasks, early detection is important. Many children with hyperopia may not complain of blurry vision or may compensate by holding objects at a distance. Regular eye exams are essential in identifying and managing hyperopia early, ensuring that children and adults alike are able to focus comfortably.

Signs and Symptoms of Hyperopia

Some of the common signs that may indicate hyperopia in children and adults include:

  • Headaches
  • Blurred vision for near objects
  • Squinting when trying to focus on close-up tasks
  • Difficulty reading, stitching, or other near tasks
  • Eye strain or feeling of heaviness in the eyes

However, not all children with hyperopia will exhibit these signs, making it all the more important to schedule regular eye exams to catch any potential issues early.

What Happens If Significant Hyperopia is Not Corrected?

If significant hyperopia is left untreated, it can lead to further complications such as:

  • Eyestrain or discomfort
  • Esotropia (an in-turning of the eye)
  • Refractive amblyopia (a lazy eye)
  • Learning-related difficulties due to blurry near vision and associated migraines

Children with untreated hyperopia may struggle to concentrate in school, potentially affecting their academic performance. Early treatment can prevent these complications and support proper visual development.

How is Significant Hyperopia Managed?

The most common treatment for hyperopia is the use of convex (plus) lenses to help focus light properly onto the retina. These lenses help converge the light rays and bring the focal point forward, improving near vision. For those who prefer an alternative, contact lenses are also a viable option for managing hyperopia.

It’s important to note that children may not immediately report clearer vision through their prescribed lenses, but they will likely feel a significant reduction in eye strain, which will improve their overall comfort during near-vision tasks.

Are Spectacles Enough to Fix Hyperopia?

Corrective glasses are an effective and common solution for managing hyperopia. For many children and adults, wearing spectacles or contact lenses provides immediate relief and clarity, especially for near vision. While spectacles do not cure hyperopia, they play a key role in reducing symptoms and making daily tasks more comfortable.

  • Use corrective glasses or contact lenses to improve near vision
  • Take regular breaks from close-up tasks like reading or screen time
  • Encourage outdoor activities to reduce eye strain from near tasks
  • Practice proper reading and viewing distances to reduce discomfort
  • Opt for refractive surgery in adults for a permanent solution (if suitable)
  • Educate children about the importance of wearing glasses as prescribed
  • Support children with special tools or accommodations if they experience learning difficulties due to hyperopia

What You Can Do?

  • Use corrective glasses or contact lenses to improve near vision.
  • Take regular breaks from close-up tasks like reading or screen time.
  • Encourage outdoor activities to reduce eye strain from near tasks.
  • Practice proper reading and viewing distances to reduce discomfort.
  • Support children with special tools or accommodations if they experience learning difficulties due to hyperopia

At Eyecare Kids, we’re committed to helping you and your family manage eye conditions like hyperopia. If you have concerns about your child’s vision or if you’re noticing any signs of blurry near vision, don’t wait — book an eye exam today!

FAQs about Hyperopia from Parents and Guardians

No, hyperopia cannot be reversed. Some people will have hyperopia with no symptoms. However, for people who get fatigue, eye strain or blurry vision, corrective glasses or contact lenses can significantly improve vision and comfort when reading. If you cannot wear glasses or want to be independent from glasses, there are refractive surgeries available for hyperopia.

It’s recommended that children have their first eye exam around the ages of 3-4 before they start school. They will generally get a screening done if they are in pre-school. However, this only looks at one aspect of vision. If you have any concerns with your child’s vision and they are younger than 3-4, then we strongly recommend getting their eyes checked with us regardless especially if there is any family history of eye problems.

For children with hyperopia, wearing glasses is essential for clear near vision. They can take breaks during activities that don’t require close focus, like outdoor play or watching TV. However, glasses should be worn for reading, homework, or other close-up activities to prevent eye strain.

Your Child’s Sight is Precious

Good vision is vital for your child’s development, both academically and in their everyday life. Don’t wait for the signs to show up – let our behavioural optometrists help you give your child the best chance at clear, efficient vision.

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