About this topic
Farsighted means that you see things better that are further away. Objects that are close up look blurry. The problem can be mild or severe. Farsightedness often starts in early childhood. It most often gets better as the eyes develop. As we grow older, the eyes have more trouble focusing on objects that are close up. This is called presbyopia. Both close up and distance eyesight may get worse. Glasses or contacts will be needed in order to see better. ‚
What are the causes?
Farsightedness is caused by a problem within the eye. With this problem, light rays are not focused clearly on the retina. The retina is the back part of the eye. The rays focus behind it. ‚
What can make this more likely to happen?
You are more like to have this problem if you are over 40 years of age. You may also be more at risk if you have a family member with this eye problem. ‚
What are the main signs?
- Blurred eyesight
- Trouble seeing objects that are close up
- Squinting to see things clearly
- Eye strain
- Headache
- Need more light when doing close work like reading
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
Your doctor will take your history and do an eye exam. The doctor will check your eyes to see how well they focus light. Your doctor may shine a light in your eyes. The doctor will have you look through different lenses. This will tell the doctor what correction is needed to help you see more clearly. The doctor may need to put drops in your eyes during the testing. ‚
The doctor may order: ‚
- Slit lamp exam
- Test to measure eye pressure
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Your doctor will talk with you about the results of your eye exam. Some people who are farsighted do not need any treatment. As you get older, you may need to wear glasses or contact lenses to correct this problem. If you have trouble seeing both close up and at a distance, you may need bifocal lenses. These lenses can help with both problems. ‚
Some people choose to have eye surgery. This type of surgery is called refractive surgery. LASIK is one example that is often done to treat this problem. Sometimes, new lenses may be implanted in the eye. ‚
What care is needed at home?
- Keep health problems like diabetes or high blood pressure under control.
- Protect your eyes from the sun. Wear sunglasses that block ultraviolet rays.
- Use good lighting.
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. ‚
What problems could happen?
- Double vision
- Crossed eyes or lazy eye
- Eye strain
- Glaucoma
- Less quality of life
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
There is no way to prevent this problem. ‚
When do I need to call the doctor?
- Sudden eyesight loss
- Trouble seeing things clearly
- You see flashing light or have floating spots
- You see halos around lights
Where can I learn more?
American Academy of Ophthalmology ‚
http://www.geteyesmart.org/eyesmart/diseases/hyperopia.cfm ‚
National Eye Institute ‚
http://www.nei.nih.gov/health/errors/hyperopia.asp ‚
NHS Choices ‚
http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Long-sightedness/Pages/Introduction.aspx ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚