Hyperopia
(long-sightedness)
Hyperopia, or long-sightedness, is a common vision problem, affecting a quarter of the population. People with hyperopia can see distant objects clearly, but have difficulty focusing on objects that are up close.
If you suffer from headaches or eyestrain and find yourself squinting when performing work at close range, you may suffer hyperopia.
If your glasses or contact lens prescription begins with plus numbers, like +2.50, you are hyperopic.
Hyperopia occurs when the light rays entering the eye focus behind the retina, rather than directly on it - the eyeball of a farsighted person is shorter than that of a 'normal' eye.
Sometimes people confuse hyperopia with presbyopia, which also is a difficulty in seeing up close, but has a different cause.
Hyperopia can be corrected with glasses or contact lenses, to change the way light rays bend into the eyes. Many people, however, choose refractive surgeries such as iLasik™, which deliver great results and permanent corrections.