Do you struggle to focus on nearby objects or find yourself straining to read small print? These could be signs of hyperopia, or farsightedness, which can cause headaches, eye strain, and blurred vision at close distances. At New York Retina Center, Dr. Brandon Johnson provides expert, compassionate care to help you see clearly again.
What is Hyperopia?
Hyperopia, also known as farsightedness, is a common refractive error in which distant objects appear clearer than those up close. It occurs when the eyeball is too short or the cornea has too little curvature, causing light to focus behind the retina instead of directly on it. This leads to difficulty reading, eye strain, or fatigue after prolonged near work. Dr. Johnson carefully evaluates your vision to determine the most effective solution for your visual needs.
Common Signs & Symptoms of Hyperopia:
- Blurred vision when focusing on nearby objects
- Eye strain or fatigue after reading or screen use
- Difficulty concentrating on close-up tasks
- Frequent headaches, especially around the eyes or forehead
- Squinting to see clearly
- Discomfort or a burning sensation in the eyes after visual activity
- Trouble with fine detail work, such as sewing or reading small print
What Causes Hyperopia?
To understand hyperopia, it helps to know how the eye focuses light. Normally, the cornea and lens bend light rays so they land directly on the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. In farsightedness, the eyeball is too short or the cornea too flat, so light focuses behind the retina instead. This makes nearby objects appear blurry while distant vision remains clearer.
Several factors can increase your risk of developing hyperopia, including:
- Genetic inheritance or family history of farsightedness
- Naturally shorter eyeball length
- Flattened corneal curvature
- Age-related changes in the lens or cornea
- Certain medical or developmental eye conditions
When to Seek Treatment for Hyperopia?
You should consider consulting an eye specialist if you experience frequent headaches, eye strain, or difficulty focusing on tasks that require near vision, such as reading or computer work. Even mild farsightedness can worsen over time or cause discomfort if left uncorrected. Dr. Johnson recommends regular eye exams to detect hyperopia early and provide timely treatment, ensuring your vision stays sharp and comfortable at every distance.
How is Hyperopia Treated?
Treatment for hyperopia focuses on helping light properly focus on the retina to improve near vision and reduce eye strain. The most common solutions include prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses that adjust how light enters the eye. These are often highly effective in restoring clear, comfortable vision for daily activities like reading, computer work, and driving.
For long-term vision correction, refractive surgeries like LASIK or PRK can reshape the cornea to achieve proper light focus. Dr. Johnson carefully evaluates your vision, lifestyle, and eye health to recommend the safest and most effective treatment for your unique needs.
Schedule Your Consultation
New York Retina Center is dedicated to helping you see the world with clarity. Led by Dr. Brandon Johnson, a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained retina surgeon, our practice uses advanced diagnostic technology and offers cutting-edge solutions to restore visual acuity. If you’re struggling with farsightedness or eye strain, schedule your consultation for hyperopia in Manhattan and take the first step toward clearer vision.
