What Is Farsightedness? (Hyperopia)

Have you ever struggled to read on your phone or laptop, needing to hold it at arm’s length to focus? If you see distant objects more clearly than up close, you might have farsightedness (hyperopia). It’s a common vision condition — and one that’s also very treatable. In this guide, we’ll explain what it means, why it happens, how to fix it, and when to see an eye doctor.

What Exactly Is Hyperopia?

Hyperopia occurs when your eye’s shape causes light to focus behind the retina, instead of directly on it. This usually happens because:

The eyeball is shorter than normal, or

The cornea is too flat.

As a result, distant objects look sharp, but close-up items (like your phone or newspaper) appear blurry. And if your eyes have to strain for near vision, you may experience tiredness or headaches.

Who Gets Farsightedness—and Why?

Hyperopia often runs in families. It’s common in childhood, but many young people don’t even notice it until reading or screen time increases. Kids often compensate well, but over time they might experience:

• Eye strain or fatigue during homework
  
• Frequent headaches
  
• Difficulty reading small print
  

For adults, farsightedness may become more apparent after age 40, when presbyopia begins (the normal age-related reduction in near vision).

Common Symptoms to Watch For

 

If these symptoms hit after prolonged reading or computer use —and are eased when looking at distant objects—you may struggle with hyperopia.

How Is Farsightedness Diagnosed?

A comprehensive eye exam is essential to detect hyperopia. Key components include:

• Visual acuity test (to check focus distance)
  
• Refraction test (to determine the correct prescription)
  
• Eye health evaluation (to rule out other conditions)
  

At Blue Planet Optics, we always recommend regular eye exams—especially if you experience blurred vision or frequent eye strain.

Treatment Options

Fortunately, farsightedness is very treatable. Your choice depends on lifestyle, vision needs, and budget:

1. Eyeglasses

The easiest and most common option. A prescription for hyperopia corrects the focal point so light lands properly on your retina. You may choose:

Single-vision lenses – to correct a specific distance

Progressive lenses – if you also need correction for presbyopia

2. Contact Lenses

A convenient alternative to glasses. Contacts sit directly on your eye to correct hyperopia and offer clear vision without frames.

Popular lenses we carry include:

Acuvue Oasys for Presbyopia – for those experiencing both hyperopia and presbyopia

Total30 Multifocal – breathable lenses with smooth transitions between distances

DAILIES Aquacomfort Plus – daily disposables, ideal for active lifestyles 

Will Farsightedness Get Worse?

Children: Often improves as their eyes grow—mild hyperopia may decrease on its own.

Adults: Can worsen gradually. Age-related presbyopia, which typically begins around age 40, may compound the effects.

Regular checkups help ensure your prescription stays current and comfortable as your eyes change.

Tips to Manage Farsightedness

• Stick to the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds
  
• Use adequate good lighting for reading and screen use
• Use lubricating eye drops if your eyes feel dry or strained (make sure they are specifically designed for use with contact lenses if you wear them)
  
• Schedule annual eye exams, especially if you’re noticing new symptoms
  

Farsightedness FAQ

Q: Is hyperopia the same as presbyopia?

A: No. Hyperopia results from your eye’s shape and is often present from birth. Presbyopia is age-related, caused by decreased lens flexibility, usually after age 40.

Q: Can I wear contact lenses if I’m farsighted?

A: Absolutely! Many people with hyperopia wear contacts. Our Contact Lens Collection includes hundreds of options to meet different prescription needs.

Q: Can hyperopia be cured without glasses or contacts?

A: Not without refractive surgery. Mild cases in children may correct as the eyes grows—but in adults, correction is needed for clear vision.

Q: My child is slightly farsighted—should I worry?

A: Not unless they’re showing signs of eye strain or poor focus. Still, scheduling an eye exam helps monitor changes and ensure healthy vision.

Q: When should I see an eye doctor?

A: If you experience blurry near near vision is blurry, frequent headaches, or notice increased eye strain—book an appointment. Regular checkups can detect issues before they worsen.

In Summary

Farsightedness (hyperopia) means distant objects appear clearer than near ones, due to how light focuses in your eye. It can cause blurred near vision, eye strain, or headaches—but is easily treatable with glasses, contacts, or surgery. Regular eye exams ensure your vision is properly corrected and comfortable.

Shopping for contact lenses? Visit Blue Planet Optics to find yours today!