What is hyperopia?

Hyperopia, also known as farsightedness, is a common refractive error of vision where distant objects can be seen more clearly than nearby ones. This condition arises when the eye is shorter than normal or when the curvature of the cornea is too flat, causing light rays to focus behind the retina instead of directly on it. As a result, individuals with hyperopia may experience difficulty focusing on close objects, which can lead to eye strain, headaches, and blurry vision when reading or performing tasks at close range.

Understanding hyperopia is crucial for eye care professionals, as it directly influences how they diagnose and treat patients. Individuals may not be aware they have hyperopia until they experience associated symptoms, making awareness of this condition vital for early detection and appropriate corrective measures, such as prescription glasses or contact lenses. By recognizing hyperopia as a form of farsightedness, medical professionals can better address the needs of their patients and improve their visual quality of life.