Hyperopia, also known as farsightedness, is when you can see objects clearly in the distance but have trouble seeing objects up close. This happens when light focuses behind the retina instead of on it because the eyeball is too short or the lens isn't curved enough. Hyperopia can be mild or severe and may require professional eye care. If you think you might be farsighted, our team at Riviera Opticare in Mesa and Scottsdale can help.

Causes of Hyperopia

Hyperopia occurs when the eyeball is too short or the cornea (the eye's front surface) isn't curved enough. This causes light to focus behind the retina instead of on it, resulting in blurry vision. Hyperopia can be inherited, or it may develop after an eye injury or disease. It often combines with other vision problems, such as astigmatism or presbyopia.

Symptoms of Hyperopia

If you have hyperopia, you may experience the following symptoms:

• Trouble seeing objects up close
• Blurry vision 
• Headaches
• Eyestrain

Hyperopia may cause crossed eyes or amblyopia (lazy eye) in children. 

When Should You See an Eye Doctor?

If you're having trouble seeing objects up close or experiencing any of the other symptoms of hyperopia, schedule an appointment with one of our eye doctors. Our optometrists can conduct a comprehensive eye exam to determine whether or not you are farsighted. If you are, we will recommend treatment options like:

Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses

Hyperopia can often be corrected with eyeglasses or contact lenses, which refocus light on the retina. They may be worn all the time or just for certain activities, such as reading or using a computer.

Refractive Surgery

If you don't want to wear eyeglasses or contact lenses, you may be a candidate for refractive surgery, such as LASIK. This surgery changes the shape of your cornea to allow light to focus properly on the retina.

Vision Therapy

In some cases, our eye doctors may recommend vision therapy. This treatment conducted by optometrists can help train your eyes and brain to work together more effectively.

Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses with Prism

Our eye doctors may prescribe eyeglasses or contact lenses with prism if you have double vision. This type of lens bends light to help reduce or eliminate double vision.

Eye Drops

In some cases, eye drops may be recommended to help relax the muscles in your eye. This can be helpful if you have strabismus (eye turn) or amblyopia (lazy eye).

Visit Our Optometry Team for Quality Eye Care in Scottsdale or Mesa, AZ

Treating hyperopia is important to maintain clear vision and prevent further deterioration of your eyesight. To schedule an appointment for our optometry services, please call us at(480) 991-6432 for our Scottsdale location or(480) 827-9184 for our Mesa office. At Riviera Opticare, we look forward to helping you achieve and maintain clear vision for years to come.