Farsightedness, also called hyperopia, is a condition where you have trouble seeing things that are up close. You can, however, still see things that are far away.
Farsightedness is the result of the visual image being focused behind the retina rather than directly on it. It may be caused by the eyeball being too small or the focusing power being too weak.
Farsightedness Causes
Farsightedness is often present from birth. If you have family members who are farsighted, you are also more likely to become farsighted.
Farsightedness Treatments
If you have trouble reading or seeing objects that are close, you will need to see an ophthalmologist or an optometrist for an eye exam. Based on that exam, he or she may prescribe spectacle (glasses) correction or contact lens correction.
Both glasses and contact lenses have advantages and disadvantages. Your provider will work with you to determine which will best suit your condition and your lifestyle. If you use contact lenses, you will likely need glasses as well.
For some patients, LASIK surgery is an option to correct farsightedness and eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.