Hyperopia

Hyperopia is a refractive error that results in blurred vision of nearby objects. Generally, it manifests as uncomfortable and unclear near vision. Typically, babies are born with hyperopia (known as physiological hyperopia), which corrects itself as they grow. Abnormal eye development can lead to adults retaining this refractive defect.

Depending on the severity of this refractive error, hyperopia is classified into three types:

• Mild hyperopia: between one and three diopters.
• Moderate hyperopia: between three and six diopters.
• High hyperopia: more than six diopters.

In some cases, especially when hyperopia is severe, difficulty distinguishing distant objects may also occur. When hyperopia is mild, the eye muscles accommodate to correct vision without the need for treatment. Over time, this ability diminishes, making treatment necessary to see clearly up close.

It is important to differentiate hyperopia, which can occur in young individuals, from presbyopia, which is a natural consequence of aging eyes.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of hyperopia include:

• Blurred vision of nearby objects.
• Occasionally, difficulty distinguishing distant objects.
• Headache.
• Eye strain.
• Eye redness and itching.

Causes

Hyperopia is caused by an error in the convergence of the crystalline lens, which results in images being focused behind the retina instead of directly on it, as they should be. There are different causes for this refractive defect, categorized into three types:

• Simple hyperopia: The eye is smaller than normal.
• Compound hyperopia: The eye is short, and the cornea is flatter than it should be.
• Mixed hyperopia: The eye is longer than usual and the cornea is flat, or the eye is shorter than normal and the cornea has more curvature than expected.

Risk Factors

The primary risk factor for hyperopia is a family history of the condition, as it has a genetic component.

Complications

If hyperopia is not properly managed, other eye problems such as strabismus or amblyopia (lazy eye) may develop. Therefore, regular eye exams with an ophthalmologist are recommended.

Prevention

Hyperopia cannot be prevented. However, certain guidelines can help prevent it from worsening:

• Have regular eye exams.
• Prevent dry eyes by using artificial tears.
• Protect the eyes by wearing sunglasses, swimming goggles, or safety glasses when engaging in sports or risky activities.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Which Doctor Treats Hyperopia?

Ophthalmologists diagnose and treat hyperopia. Pediatricians and family doctors can also detect it during their consultations.